Uncover the Untapped Potential of Seasonal Content in Halo Infinite

Highlights

Halo Infinite has had its highs and lows, with controversies surrounding the lack of co-op and insufficient content.

Partnering with Rooster Teeth for a season of content, a crossover with the popular web series Red vs. Blue could greatly impact player retention and attract new fans. Given 343 Industries' previous admiration for Red vs. Blue, this collaboration could result in themed maps, thrilling cosmetics, and the exciting addition of Church as an AI option.

Halo Infinite has had its share of highs and lows. While the campaign received praise, the absence of co-op caused controversy. Additionally, while the core multiplayer gameplay was exceptional, fans became annoyed by the lack of content. Although there were some commendable decisions such as having non-expiring battle passes, there were also divisive choices like excessively long seasons. Although the game's reputation has started to improve, a major move is needed to regain players' trust, and a collaboration with one of the most beloved web series could be the solution.

While Halo Infinite's forge mode has allowed the community to address the content issue, there is still a need for more captivating seasons. Collaborations are a popular method for live service games to make an impact, as they can attract fans of other properties. Fortnite has found success with this approach, incorporating characters and cosmetics from various franchises like Rick and Morty and The Witcher. While Halo players may not desire over-the-top crossovers within the Halo universe, a perfect balance can be achieved through a collaboration with Red vs. Blue.

A Red vs. Blue Crossover Season Could Win Back Halo Players and Attract New Ones

Originating in 2003, Red vs. Blue is an online series crafted by Rooster Teeth. Originally a parody of Halo multiplayer, the show transformed from a purely comedic focus to a captivating production with well-developed characters and gripping storylines. While humor remains an integral part of Red vs. Blue, the Freelancer saga's action sequences and overarching narrative hold a special place. As Red vs. Blue nears its final season, featuring the return of the original creative team, now is an ideal time to honor the series. Moreover, this content has the potential to attract new viewers who appreciate Rooster Teeth and Red vs. Blue, even if they have no particular interest in the Halo franchise.

Throughout the Halo franchise, there have been numerous displays of affection towards Red vs. Blue. Collaborations between Bungie and Rooster Teeth on an ODST series and subtle references in the form of in-game Easter eggs, such as the lightish red armor color, have delighted fans. Halo Infinite, in particular, contains several nods to Red vs. Blue, including references to Grifball and the popular "why are we here?" quote appearing as a loading screen tip. Additionally, an Xbox achievement alludes to Shiela the tank. Given 343 Industries' evident admiration for the Rooster Teeth series, it would be a perfect match to take the partnership a step further and collaborate on a season of content.

One possible opportunity for this hypothetical season could involve incorporating Red vs. Blue-themed maps. Given that Red vs. Blue is filmed within Halo games, it would only require 343 Industries to remaster iconic maps with an RvB twist. A revised edition of Blood Gulch could feature clever references to the early days of the show, such as Lopez’ severed head or Shiela the Tank. Both characters could have dialogue, delivering hilarious lines from the series, while players would have to decipher Lopez's words, just like the Reds and Blues. Another viable map could be based on Chorus, including elements like Freckles and Grif’s disheveled room.

In addition to maps filled with Easter eggs, a Red vs. Blue season could offer an array of exciting cosmetics. For instance, weapons such as the M41 Spnkr could be temporarily renamed as Simmons’ Blaster to pay homage to the show. RvB-themed weapon skins could also be introduced. Players could have the opportunity to acquire armor sets inspired by Tucker’s meta armor from season 13, while charms could range from a photograph of Tucker with his alien son to a miniature version of Epsilon. Furthermore, it would be thrilling to include an AI option for Church, also known as Epsilon, that accompanies the player and provides commentary on the game. Church's witty remarks about the player's gameplay or complaints about being chosen for the mission could be genuinely hilarious, particularly if voiced by Burnie Burns.

This content could include a hidden teaser for the final season of Red vs. Blue, featuring a secret message or video for players to discover. A lighthearted season that celebrates the best fan creation in Halo could be exactly what Halo Infinite needs at this moment. It is important for players to be reminded of what makes Halo special, and while Forge is a step in that direction, more efforts should be made. Considering that Red vs. Blue still has valuable lessons to offer to Halo, it deserves to have a more prominent presence in the latest game.

Halo Infinite is now available on PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.