Microsoft may revive Halo: Combat Evolved on PlayStation 5

Microsoft is reportedly developing a remaster of Halo: Combat Evolved, with potential plans to release it on PlayStation 5 alongside Xbox. This report comes from The Verge's newsletter by Tom Warren, revealing that the project is in its early stages and unlikely to be announced at the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase. The original Halo: Combat Evolved, developed by Bungie, was released in 2001 as a launch title for the original Xbox and has been a cornerstone of Microsoft's gaming portfolio. A previous remake, Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, was released in 2011, offering enhanced graphics and additional features like achievements and game engine toggling. Recently, Microsoft's strategy includes expanding the availability of first-party games beyond Xbox, with titles like Grounded and Sea of Thieves going multi-platform. More information is expected to be unveiled at the Xbox Games Showcase this Sunday.

While a remaster of Halo: Combat Evolved is reportedly in development, it is still in its early days, making an imminent announcement unlikely. However, Microsoft is considering releasing it on PlayStation 5 alongside the Xbox version.

Halo: Combat Evolved has been pivotal in establishing the Halo series as a flagship franchise for Microsoft. The original game set new standards for first-person shooters with its engaging single-player campaign and groundbreaking multiplayer modes. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, the 2011 remake, offered significant graphical upgrades and new features, setting a precedent for future remasters. The inclusion of Halo in the Master Chief Collection allowed new and old players to experience the critically acclaimed series with enhanced visuals and performance, keeping the franchise relevant in modern gaming.