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Halo makes its return in a big way—reimagined for the next generation. Microsoft and Halo Studios have unveiled Halo: Campaign Evolved, an all-new remake of the original Halo: Combat Evolved campaign, which will launch in 2026.

Coming to All Major Platforms

The remake can be played on Xbox Series X|S, PC (through Xbox and Steam), and for the first time ever, on PlayStation 5. It is also compatible with Xbox Cloud Gaming and Play Anywhere, launching on day one with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.

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A Ground-Up Reinvention with Unreal Engine 5

Made completely in Unreal Engine 5, Halo: Campaign Evolved is set to bring the same wonder players experienced back in 2001—but amplified. The remake guarantees 4K visuals, re-recorded voice acting, revamped animations, and remastered soundtracks. According to Halo Studios, the goal is to “bottle the impact” of the original, blending the nostalgia of Combat Evolved with the cinematic polish of modern gaming.

Importantly, this isn’t a replacement. The studio describes the remake as a “modern evolution” that will exist alongside the original Combat Evolved, not overwrite it.

Expanded Story and New Missions

To deepen Halo’s lore, the remake introduces three prequel missions that explore the events leading up to the first campaign. These tiers will introduce new characters, worlds, and foes, building upon the original narrative but not altering its emotional foundation.

Players will also be able to enjoy nine new weapons across the Halo franchise, such as series staples like the Energy Sword, Battle Rifle, and Needle Rifle—now playable for the first time in the original campaign.

Traditional missions have been rebuilt entirely to keep up with current standards, with better pacing and more engaging environmental storytelling. A great example is The Library, which has been rebuilt to be more tense and navigable without sacrificing its legendary atmosphere.

Gameplay and Combat Improvements

Aside from the new missions, the remake adds contemporary gameplay features like optional sprinting, car hijacking, and total control over the Covenant Wraith tank. The Skull modifier system returns—this time offering the most customisation ever seen in a Halo campaign. Players can also team up for full four-player online co-op or enjoy two-player split-screen on console.

Designed for New Players and Long-Time Fans

For Halo Studios, Campaign Evolved serves as both a tribute and a fresh beginning. Executive Producer Damon Conn said the team deliberately chose to start from the beginning: “We wanted a perfect entry point for new players while honouring what long-time fans hold dear.”

Fans will get their first look at gameplay during the Halo World Championships, where an early hands-on demo will showcase the rebuilt world.

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As Conn summed it up:

“We’re not rewriting Halo’s legacy—we’re immersing players in it like never before.”

Halo: Campaign Evolved launches in 2026 for Xbox Series X|S, PC, Steam, and PlayStation 5, with day-one access for Game Pass subscribers.

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