Edit: This has now been confirmed. Original story as follows.
It’s been alleged that the upcoming Halo Infinite will use the free-to-play model for its multiplayer mode.
The rumour come from UK toy retailer, Smyths Toys, where a promotional description claims that Halo Infinite will run at up to 120 FPS and will feature a “groundbreaking free-to-play multiplayer experience.”
The full description states: “The legendary Halo series returns with the most expansive Master Chief campaign yet and a groundbreaking free-to-play multiplayer experience. Enjoy up to 120 FPS and greatly reduced load times creating seamless gameplay with Xbox Series X.”
How exactly a free-to-play multiplayer mode would work – if it’s even true – remains to be seen. Perhaps the Xbox developers have taken note of Activision and the use of its free-to-play Battle Royale, Call of Duty: Warzone, alongside the paid game Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.
The supposed news is yet to be verified by either Xbox or 343 Industries, so as always, take the rumour with a pinch of salt for now.
In related news, 343 Industries is seemingly taking note of fans’ critiques of the Halo Infinite gameplay reveal. The campaign mode was shown off for the first time during the Xbox Games Showcase, and gamers were quick to call out some of the less enticing graphics.
Halo Infinite’s Narrative Experience Director, Dan Chosich, has since spoken out about the controversy, responding to a fan’s critique of the gameplay which called out its “sh*tty textures and worse lighting effects.”
Chosich tweeted: “I’ve been in your shoes. I know what it’s like to have expectations built + feel let down. I want you to know your voice matters + is heard. You’re not falling on deaf ears. I always want to live up to the legacy that Bungie pioneered. I personally care a lot about honoring that.”
There’s still some months until the launch of Halo Infinite, which doesn’t yet have a firm release date other than Holiday 2020. Still, there’s hopefully enough time left to address the concerns fans have over the game.
Featured Image Credit: Microsoft/343 Industries