In response to rumors that it was leaving Halo development, publisher 343 Industries issued a press release. This comes after reports surfaced that Microsoft was planning to move the production of Halo games to a separate unit as part of their reorganization initiatives, along with the layoffs of up to 10,000 people (particularly 343 staff).
Microsoft is having a hard time right now as it deals with the fallout of redundancies across the technology sector. At first, there were worries about how the widespread cutbacks Microsoft announced at the conclusion of its financial year would affect the company’s massive video gaming divisions. As days go, word came from a number of different firms that they had laid off a number of programmers. The most shocking piece of information was the widespread notion that Halo game design tasks were being taken away from 343 Industries.
Studio Head of 343 Industries Pierre Hintze has updated the Halo Twitter page with the following quote: “Halo and Master Chief are going to stay.” This brief statement serves as confirmation that the company has every intention of continuing to create and tell Halo stories.
There were reports previously in the week that 343 Industries might be cut from future Halo games by Microsoft. The tweet prompts speculation as to whether or not 343 Industries is actively defending its position as Halo franchise creator or whether or not it has agreed to remain in that role in recent board meetings.
The statement, signed by 343 Studio Head Pierre Hintze, provides a categorical refutation that should put an end to the speculation. If the comment from 343’s Studio Head is any indication, Halo is certain to stay in the hands of 343 Industries for the foreseeable future. When it comes to Halo Infinite’s post-release DLC, 343 Industries has struggled. Forgotten pledges like split-screen multiplayer and a dearth of enthusiasm for the multiplayer modes have left Halo Infinite trailing behind its rivals.
Microsoft’s approach to social media messages is quite deliberate. When a corporation makes a public remark, there is a purpose behind what and how it makes statements. This holds true whether the firm is making a lighthearted pitch to gamers’ enjoyment of games or a more serious statement like the numerous the tech giant has had to deliver in the midst of the Activision merger. In the midst of Microsoft’s various transitions, this message is meant to reassure fans that 343 Industries, as well as Halo, will not be split off at this time.
