Xbox may let Activision run Halo: Campaign Evolved studio, in surprising leak

To boost profits, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma is prioritizing key IPs like Halo. The shooter is deeply rooted in the brand's history, but recent titles haven’t entirely met expectations. Despite high hopes for the Halo: Campaign Evolved remake, Microsoft may be planning a shakeup for its studio. A new rumor suggests that Activision Blizzard could run the franchise.

Is the rumor credible?

Jez Corden of Windows Central made the revelation during an Xbox Two podcast. The insider admits that the report sounds far-fetched, but he heard a “crazy rumor that they might put Halo under Activision.” The decision would allow the series to realize “the level of potential that it actually has.”

343 Industries produced Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary in 2011 after taking over for Bungie. It then completed projects including Halo 4, The Master Chief Collection, and Halo Infinite. In 2024, the company assumed the Halo Studios identity and pivoted to Unreal Engine 5 to increase its output.

Since Microsoft recently made changes, major restructuring may seem unlikely. After the July 28th Halo: Campaign Evolved release date, leaks hint that several other remakes and a new mainline entry are in the works. A move to Activision Blizzard could upend that schedule, and result in fewer Halo games in the near term.

How Activision could improve Halo

On the other hand, depending on the relationship’s dynamics, there could be minimal interruptions. While supporting the same creators, the publisher can offer valuable resources. Xbox relies on Activision’s ability to ship a steady stream of Call of Duty titles. It’s also adept at implementing lucrative live-service features, which has been a weakness of the Halo franchise.

Asha Sharma has made other choices that surprised analysts. As she resets the gaming business, followers saw a price cut for Xbox Game Pass in time for the Campaign Evolved release date. Meanwhile, consoles have become costlier even with a return to exclusive games. Fans also worry about more reported studio closures.

Given the unpredictable events, it may be wise not to rule out another Halo Studios transformation.