After not appearing at Xbox's own Gamescom 2021 event, fans were wondering whether Halo Infinite would show up at Opening Night Live. Well, it showed up alright, with Microsoft unveiling a special, limited edition Halo Infinite-themed Xbox Series X console.
The latest installment in the Halo franchise has had fans dying of anticipation since its unveil a few years ago. From scattered glimpses and disappointing delays, to recent playtests and development transperency, 343 Industries is aware of fan excitement and the expectations that are being lofted on this game. It was shocking to many that Halo Infinite was not featured in Xbox's Gamescom 2021 event, let alone even a mention of arguably Xbox's most anticipated game. However, Microsoft brought the game to Opening Night LIve and it did not disappoint.
One of the few Halo Infinite announcements at Gamescom's Opening Night Live included the reveal of a limited edition Xbox Series X console. In the dramatic announcement trailer, iconic quotes from the Master Chief ring out over captivating shots of recognizable Halo imagery, like Master Chief's armor. While there have been many limited edition Xbox Series X controllers, including the recently announced Forza Horizon limited edition controller, this marks the first limited edition variant of the Xbox Series X console. The console is up for pre-order now and drops November 15.
Unlike this still-impressive fan-made Halo Infinite Xbox Series X console, whose primary inspiration is specifically Master Chief, the official console is going in a more subtle direction. The console is primarily black and grey, sectioned off by crisp gold linework into geometric shapes that resemble the etchings of a Spartan's visor. What's more, the upper portion of the console has a star-like, shimmering texture, channeling both the mystery and wonder Halo has generated for so many years. Included in the console is a similarly themed Xbox Series X controller, as well as a download for the game.
As the perennial franchise of Microsoft and Xbox, Halo has had many limited edition consoles and controllers over the years, and this may be the most beautiful one yet. Practically every major release in the franchise has come with a special edition console, whether that's the original translucent green Xbox when Halo: Combat Evolved released, to most recently, the futuristic silver and blue Xbox One that released alongisde Halo 5: Guardians. Limited edition consoles are hard enough to snag as is, but with the ongoing Xbox Series X console shortages, this may be the most difficult one yet.
Halo Infinite releases December 8 for PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
Source: 343 Industries