Microsoft Canceled Three Halo Games, Insider Report Says

Before massive layoffs at the former 343 Industries, three Halo projects were in development concurrently: Halo 7, a smaller game based on the novel First Strike, and updated versions of classic series entries.

According to insider RebsGaming and The Verge, the most advanced spinoff project was the game based on First Strike, which takes place between the first and second Halo games. It was intended to connect the remakes of Halo 2 and Halo 3, offering five story missions and Firefight mode, with a possible release next year.

A small team was also working on the concept for a full-scale Halo 7. Before the layoffs, the developers presented Matt Booty and upper management with an updated vision for the game featuring a new story, PvP, cooperative PvE, and an expanded Forge mode.

However, Halo 7 was in an early stage, and years remained before full production. Following the layoffs, about 30 people remain at the studio, consisting of key engineers, artists, and support staff. Instead of developing the franchise further, Halo Studios transitioned to a supporting role.