Halo Infinite is the game that almost didn’t happen. Its troubled development saw it slip from a flagship launch title to a barebones release, then back again through years of delays and a full rebuild. The result, now available on Series X|S, PC and XONE, stands as one of the best Halo games in years. It earns an 8.8 out of 10.
Trailer, via XBOX.
The Campaign
The campaign runs about six hours and plays like a masterclass in level design. The story follows Master Chief on a mission to stop a parasite threat, and it leans hard on mystery and quiet. The game trusts players to absorb information through environment and dialogue rather than exposition dumps.
The pacing is excellent. Missions rarely drag, and the level variety keeps the game fresh from the opening desert planet to the final city streets. The campaign also introduces a new AI companion named Avery Johnson, whose presence adds a layer of humor and character to a series that has often felt coldly mechanical.
Zanzibar and Beyond
The open-world section, set on the alien planet Zanzibar, is the centerpiece of Halo Infinite. It offers a sprawling sandbox filled with optional missions, hidden collectibles and fast travel points. Players can sprint, slide and grapple their way across the landscape, and the traversal systems feel fluid compared to previous entries.
The main path through Zanzibar is linear, but the side content rewards exploration. Optional missions include:
- Side quests tied to local factions
- Hidden audio logs scattered across the map
- A series of challenge objectives tied to weapons and vehicles
Multiplayer
The multiplayer mode is where Halo Infinite truly shines. Ranked play, custom matches and a dedicated social suite make this the deepest competitive Halo offering in years. The REQ system returns, allowing players to build loadouts with randomized gear. The game also supports cross-play between Series X|S, PC and XONE.
The base game includes a limited set of maps, but the free-for-all mode offers a generous selection of classic arenas. Ranked matches add a competitive ladder, and the spectator mode lets friends watch each other play.
Technical Performance
On Series X|S, Halo Infinite runs at a smooth 60 frames per second in campaign and multiplayer. Load times are near-instant thanks to the console’s SSD. The game also supports ray tracing and variable refresh rate, though neither is required for a solid experience.
The PC version scales even further. It supports up to 300 frames per second and customizable graphics settings, making it a strong option for players with capable hardware.
How It Compares
| Feature | Halo Infinite | Previous Halo Titles |
|---|---|---|
| Campaign length | ~6 hours | Longer, often over 10 hours |
| Open-world content | Full Zanzibar sandbox | Minimal or none |
| Multiplayer modes | Ranked play, REQs, cross-play | Fewer modes, no REQs |
| Frame rate | 60 FPS base | Variable, often lower |
| Level design | Highly varied | More repetitive |
Final Word
Halo Infinite is a remarkable comeback for a franchise that seemed lost. The campaign is short but sharp, the multiplayer is essential, and the technical performance is top-tier. The rebuild cost the series years, but the finished product delivers.
It isn’t perfect. Some side content feels thin, and the campaign’s mystery-heavy approach won’t suit everyone. But as a complete package, Halo Infinite is a standout entry in a series defined by highs and lows.
