Xbox and Halo Celebrate 25 Years with Exciting Future Unveiled

Xbox and Halo Gear Up for 25th Anniversary Celebrations

With the 25th anniversary of both the first Halo game and the Xbox console fast approaching, Xbox has confirmed major celebratory plans are underway. This was revealed during a recent interview where the company also discussed its expanding business strategy.

Xbox's Licensing and Merchandising Expansion

Xbox announced extensive anniversary celebrations for the Halo franchise, now developed by 343 Industries. In an interview with License Global Magazine, John Friend, Xbox's head of consumer products, highlighted the company's significant milestones and its growing focus on licensing and merchandising. This strategy mirrors the successful cross-media expansions seen with franchises like Fallout and Minecraft, which have branched into TV and film.

Friend confirmed that Xbox is actively developing plans for the 25th anniversary of both Halo and the Xbox console, mentioning other franchises nearing similar milestones: “We have these massive, fantastic franchises ranging from ‘World of Warcraft’ – celebrating its 20th anniversary this year – to ‘Halo,’ ‘Call of Duty,’ to ‘StarCraft’ and much more," he stated. "We’re building plans for the 25th anniversary of ‘Halo’ and Xbox—we have such a rich heritage and history, and these communities have been active for so long, you have to celebrate that.” Specific details, however, remain undisclosed.

Halo's 25th anniversary falls in 2026. The franchise has reportedly generated over $6 billion since the launch of Halo: Combat Evolved in 2001. Beyond its financial success, Halo: Combat Evolved holds special significance as the launch title for the original Xbox console on November 15, 2001. The franchise has expanded into novels, comics, and most recently, the critically acclaimed Paramount+ TV series.

Friend emphasized a strategic approach to these celebrations: "I often use the phrase ‘no matching luggage,’ meaning it’s crucial to tailor plans to each franchise and its community, ensuring the celebrations enhance fan engagement and build fandom," he explained. "We have an incredibly broad and exciting portfolio, but we need to be strategic."

Halo 3: ODST's 15th Anniversary

Separately, Halo 3: ODST recently marked its 15th anniversary with a commemorative 100-second YouTube video reflecting on the game's impact. The video reminisced about fans' experiences as the Rookie, on a mission to find Alpha-Nine.

Halo 3: ODST is playable on PC via Halo: The Master Chief Collection, which also includes Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Halo 2: Anniversary, Halo 3, Halo: Reach, and Halo 4.