Xbox restructure will move Halo to Activision

As part of Xbox’s ongoing restructuring, Microsoft has confirmed a major shift for the Halo franchise. Development of the next Halo title is moving to Activision, while 343 Industries (now known as Halo Studios), will be significantly scaled back.

In a new blog post this week, Microsoft announced that Activision will “expand its remit” to include Halo, with a new, dedicated team now leading development on the next entry. This team will be separate from ongoing Call of Duty work. Meanwhile, Halo Studios will transition into a much smaller group focused solely on supporting Halo titles already in the market and maintaining the community.

The move comes alongside wider cuts across Xbox Game Studios, with 268 roles eliminated from Halo Studios, other first‑party teams and central functions. Microsoft says the restructuring is intended to consolidate its business units and align studios more closely around key franchises.

Halo’s shift to Activision marks the biggest change in the franchise’s history. 343 Industries was formed specifically to steward Halo after Bungie’s departure, but following the mixed reception to Halo 4, Halo 5 and eventually Halo Infinite, maybe it was time for the series to find a new home.

KitGuru Says: Halo under Activision could have its benefits, but now I have to wonder if Halo could be viewed as an internal competitor to Blizzard's big StarCraft shooter. 

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