Xbox and Halo Gear Up for 25th Anniversary Celebrations

With the 25th anniversary of both the original Halo game and the Xbox console fast approaching, Xbox has confirmed major celebratory plans are underway. This was revealed during a recent interview where the company also discussed its future business strategy.

Xbox's Licensing and Merchandising Expansion

In an interview with License Global Magazine, John Friend, Xbox's head of consumer products, highlighted the significant milestones reached by Xbox and its IPs. He emphasized the company's growing focus on licensing and merchandising, a strategy already successfully employed with franchises like Fallout and Minecraft, which have seen successful expansion into TV and film.

Friend confirmed that Xbox is actively "building plans" for the 25th anniversary of both Halo and the Xbox console, noting the rich history and dedicated communities surrounding these brands. While specifics remain undisclosed, the anticipation is high. "We have these massive, fantastic franchises...We’re building plans for the 25th anniversary of ‘Halo’ and Xbox—we have such a rich heritage and history," Friend stated.

Halo's 25th anniversary falls in 2026. The franchise has generated over $6 billion in revenue since the launch of Halo: Combat Evolved in 2001. Beyond its financial success, the game holds immense historical significance as the Xbox console's launch title. Halo's transmedia presence extends to novels, comics, and films, with the recent Paramount+ TV series garnering critical praise.

Friend underscored the importance of a tailored approach to each franchise, stating, "it’s important to assess a franchise and a community...and make sure that you’re designing a program that’s additive to fans and building fandom."

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