The original Xbox release 20 years ago today alongside Halo. The Xbox Series X|S was not set to get its dose of Halo until December 8 with Halo Infinite, but Microsoft has set one portion of the game live early. The Halo Infinite multiplayer is now live on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One for no extra charge. However, it is technically a beta.
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343 Industries revealed this on the Xbox anniversary livestream. People will have access to all the maps, core modes, academy features, and the full battle pass to unlock. Progression will carry over during the game’s official launch on December 8. It’s live now on Steam and the Xbox Store. The Xbox Store version seems to be running into problems, but it should likely clear up soon. The first season of the multiplayer will last until May 2022, as stated by the Halo Twitter account and will be samurai themed.
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This surprise announcement isn’t quite a surprise for some. Xbox Store data apparently pointed to a November 15 release date, a few weeks ahead of the campaign’s launch. Microsoft had not hinted at a sudden multiplayer drop beforehand, but timing it around Xbox’s anniversary gave it a sliver more of credibility. Head of Xbox Phil Spencer also came out during the stream wearing a Halo Infinite shirt, which is not unusual in and of itself, but a possible hint, too.
