A classic video game might be making its grand return. During the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer teased that one of Xbox’s most iconic franchises is coming back in 2026 and according to reports, it’s a remaster of the game that was there at start: Halo: Combat Evolved. Check out his tease in the clip down below:
here's Xbox chief Phil Spencer announcing Gears of War: E-Day for 2026, and in the same year "the next Forza" and a tease of a Halo CE remaster pic.twitter.com/tTueF3YQcR
— Tom Warren (@tomwarren) June 8, 2025
While outlining next year’s Xbox slate, Spencer mentioned several major releases, including Fable, the next Forza Motorsport, and Gears of War: E-Day. He concluded with a cryptic reference to "the return of a classic that’s been with us since the beginning,” strongly hinting at Halo.
This tease aligns with earlier rumors and reports, that said the reference is specifically tied to a new Halo: Combat Evolved remaster. There had been previous reports on the game’s existence, claiming it is not only real but also being considered for release on multiple platforms including PlayStation 5.
If true, this would mark the second time Halo: Combat Evolved has recieved the remaster treatment. The first was Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, launched in 2011 to celebrate the franchise’s 10th anniversary. That version was later bundled into Halo: The Master Chief Collection and received several visual and performance upgrades over time.
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However, this new remaster could also be the sign of something more ambitious. Microsoft’s Halo development team formerly known as 343 Industries and now rebranded as Halo Studios has reportedly shifted its focus to Unreal Engine 5. In 2024, Halo Studios released a seven-minute tech demo titled Project Foundry, showcasing what a Halo game could look like in Unreal. While not a full game, it hinted at a fresh artistic direction and renewed gameplay possibilities.
That said, the 2026 release appears to be a remaster, not a brand-new Halo installment. Xbox is likely positioning this project to bridge the gap between Halo Infinite and the eventual launch of the next full sequel.
The possibility of Halo: Combat Evolved coming to PlayStation 5 is particularly noteworthy. With Xbox shifting to a multiplatform strategy for some of its key titles, this remaster could be part of a broader effort to bring Xbox’s biggest names to new audiences.
Microsoft has yet to officially confirm the remaster or its platforms, but given Spencer’s tease, a big announcement could be just around the corner.
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