EX-HALO DEV TEASES HELLDIVERS 2 IDEAS

Amid the excitement for Helldivers 2, a former Halo developer from 343 Industries has shared some intriguing tidbits about potential game ideas for the Halo universe that never saw the light of day. Kevin Schmitt, now a senior designer at Epic Games, revealed that during his tenure at 343 Industries from 2012 to 2023, the team pitched numerous concepts, including single-player and multiplayer games themed around the ODSTs, some with a darker tone.

These revelations come as a bit of a tantalizing 'what could have been' for fans of the Halo franchise, especially since games like Halo 3: ODST offered unique gameplay experiences that haven't been revisited by 343 Industries. Schmitt notes that getting games from pitch to production is influenced heavily by timing and isn’t necessarily blocked by corporate greed. He manifests a deep understanding of the game development process, acknowledging the many reasons why game pitches don’t come into fruition. Kolbe Payne, another former Halo developer and current level designer at Crystal Dynamics, chimed in with hope that other types of games within the Halo universe might be realized, considering the extensive lore that could support various genres beyond the existing RTS and FPS offerings.

While fans are enjoying Halo Infinite, some are craving more variety in the games set within the Halo universe. Concepts like a Helldivers-style game seem appealing, although there’s the risk that by the time such a game would release, player interests might have evolved.

The Halo universe has the potential to branch out into various genres such as a third-person action-adventure, survival-horror, or even role-playing games, leveraging its rich lore and extensive universe to offer new experiences to players beyond the traditional FPS and RTS games.

Halo has been a staple in the gaming world since its initial release in 2001. Its transition from Bungie to 343 Industries marked a new era for the franchise, which has since expanded with Halo 4, 5, and the latest installment, Halo Infinite. The series is known for its epic science fiction story and engaging multiplayer. Halo has had some forays into different genres before, like the strategy-based Halo Wars, but fans continue to discuss the vast untapped potential of the expansive universe that Halo is set in.