This week, Halo Infinite launched its first event, Tenrai, which is set to take place during select weeks over the next 6 months. As part of the event, developer 343 Industries has activated a new multiplayer mode called Fiesta that puts a unique twist on the Slayer mode. Instead of standardized starting weapons, each time a player respawns they are equipped with a random loadout of weapons and equipment.

While it’s not true Slayer, the Fiesta mode is close enough to give players a taste of that Team Deathmatch experience. Since the Halo Infinite multiplayer surprise launched in beta, there has not been a way for players to access a Slayer playlist. Prior to Tenrai being activated, the only options available were Quick Play, Big Team Battle, and Ranked, all of which offer a random selection of Slayer and Objective-based modes (Capture the Flag, Oddball, Stockpile, etc.).

Why Halo Infinite Needs a Slayer Playlist

Although there are plenty of Halo fans who prefer the mix of Slayer and Objective modes, there have been enough requests on social media, forums, and the game’s subreddit for Halo Infinite to offer a dedicated Slayer option. When Slayer does pop up in any of the three matchmaking playlists, it’s arguably the most engaging experience because it doesn’t wholly rely on random teammates for success.

There’s nothing more frustrating than picking up the Oddball and watching teammates scatter to the wind instead of helping protect the ball holder. It also doesn’t help that the Halo Infinite Battle Pass progression system rewards XP through challenges that encourage specific tasks rather than wins or game performance. A player might actually complete more challenges and earn more XP by never picking up the Oddball rather than the teammate who holds it the whole time and “wins” the match.

halo infinite tenrai

Being able to branch into Fiesta, where kills are all that matter, though, offers the opportunity to complete challenges and try to win the game mode at the same time. Since the Tenrai event’s launch, my enjoyment of Halo Infinite has been a lot higher, even if it would be nice to have a dedicated Slayer playlist. Trying out the different weapons without having to fight over them is also a huge boon, because it teaches players their unique properties. Because everyone races to pick up the Cindershot in regular playlists, players might not realize that they can redirect the Halo Infinite power weapon’s projectile by moving their reticule.

The hope is that when Halo Infinite officially releases on December 8th it will add more matchmaking playlists like Slayer. Fiesta has shown how fun a dedicated, kill-focused playlist can be. On top of that, being able to play your own way allows for the Battle Pass progression to feel less restrictive even if most players agree it still needs some reworking.

Halo Infinite multiplayer is available in beta right now.

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