- 343 Industries has a new leadership with a focus on DEI.
- Fans argue that emphasis on DEI is harming the franchise’s creative aspects.
- The franchise has transitioned from Slipspace to Unreal Engine 5.
The Halo franchise has been a key part of Xbox’s success since it started, but recent changes have worried many fans. Once a leader in first-person shooters, Halo has faced challenges in recent years, and the latest news from Microsoft and 343 Industries has increased concerns among players.
Fans are worried about the growing emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Halo franchise.
Why it matters: Some players believe that this focus has harmed the quality and creativity that made the franchise so special.
343 Industries has rebranded itself as “Halo Studios,” marking the start of a new era called “New Dawn.” The studio’s new Chief of Staff is deeply focused on introducing DEI in Halo games. Many fans fear it’s just a PR move to hide bigger problems within the franchise.
These fans feel that while representation matters, focusing too much on diversity and inclusion might push away longtime players who loved Halo for its sci-fi story and multiplayer.
Fans believe Halo should prioritize gameplay and competitiveness instead of concentrating on social messaging to regain its status as a top title in the FPS genre.
Fans were also quick to point out something odd. Microsoft recently shut down its DEI department, however, now the Chief of Staff at Halo Studios is an ally of DEI in video games.
The community’s feelings about these changes are deeply divided. Many longtime fans feel left out by Halo’s new direction. More people are worried that these choices might lead to the end of the beloved franchise.
Comment sections on forums and social media are filled with negative comments. Players reminisce about when Halo was the top game on Xbox, helping the Xbox 360 compete against the PlayStation 3.
Moreover, the biggest change upsetting the Halo community is 343 Industries’ decision to switch from its own Slipspace engine to Unreal Engine 5. While this aims to simplify game development and attract new talent, not all fans are on board.
Some, like Twitter user SmashJT, are skeptical, saying the franchise has lost its original identity because of these changes.
Despite these changes, it’s clear players will continue to play the franchise. Halo Infinite is finally profitable, meaning fans are still supporting the game through microtransactions.
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