Halo isn’t Exactly an Anthology Series, But It Should Be

The Halo franchise has come a long way since its beginnings in 2001. With over 20 years of games to book spin-offs and even a live action television adaptation, Halo is one of the most notable franchises in gaming. Even if one isn’t familiar with Halo‘s lore, the iconic design of long-running protagonist Master Chief has become a recognizable figure in pop culture.

Since the start of the series, Halo has put a bright spotlight on Master Chief. Despite this, it seems as though the franchise’s focus on the highly decorated Spartan soldier is beginning to grow stale, leaving Halo at a crossroads. After Halo Infinite, current developer 343 Industries may benefit by going back to the drawing board and rebooting the series. If this is the case, a new take on Halo could come out stronger if the franchise was handled as more of an anthology than focusing on one specific character.

Halo’s Future Should Adopt an Anthology Approach

Halo: Reach and ODST Remain Standout Chapters

The franchise’s original developer, Bungie, said farewell to the series with one of Halo‘s strongest chapters; Halo: Reach, with ODST as its predecessor. ODST and Reach remain two unique points in the Halo franchise. Since Halo: Reach is a direct prequel to Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 3: ODST is a side story, both were bold leaps that pushed Master Chief’s story to the side.

In Reach, players were put in the shoes of the Spartan known as Noble Six, who was part of an elite squad known as Noble Team, while ODST stars Rookie. Although the stories of Noble Six and Rookie end in tragedy, they are compelling explorations of life as UNSC soldiers. Both games are great examples of how far narratives in Halo can be taken when stepping out of the shadow Master Chief casts. Master Chief is one of the most iconic faces in 21st-century gaming, but it feels like his story has ultimately been told. The lore of Halo is rich and filled with opportunities that could better be explored through the eyes of new protagonists.

Halo: Reach was a series high that has yet to truly be replicated, but using the chapter as a source for inspiration could really help make the franchise compelling again. Halo is in need of new life, and leaving Master Chief behind may be the necessary route. Spartan soldiers and ODST are fascinating concepts, and exploring the different minds and personalities that reside behind each mask opens the series up to a world of possibility.

Recapturing the Highs of Halo: Reach and ODST

Halo has had its fair share of meaningful moments, but Halo: Reach really outdid the rest of the series with its emotional beats. The prequel showcases the sacrifices that often need to be made in war, and it pulls it off beautifully. Past Halo games have featured many great concepts, but Halo: Reach stands at the top when it comes to storytelling. ODST shines by putting a non-Spartan in the starring role, which is a refreshing change of pace. Master Chief has remained a loyal soldier for the UNSC, but seeing protagonists with diverse points of view that may not be as dedicated to the cause of the Spartans would be a fascinating direction for the franchise to take.

At the moment, it’s unknown which avenue the next Halo will explore with its protagonist, but retiring Master Chief, or at least giving him a break, could be ideal. Between Reach and ODST, Bungie was able to highlight conflict with the Covenant using a fresh set of eyes, and 343 Industries needs to take that into account for the future.