Today’s Xbox & Bethesda Games Showcase live stream on E3 2021 didn’t just finally show off Halo Infinite‘s long-awaited graphical update and holiday 2021 release window, but Microsoft and 343 Industry also give us a first look at Halo Infinite multiplayer mode and customization option. Visually speaking, I’m quite impressed. It looks like a mash-up between Halo 3‘s bright and colorful maps with Reach‘s realistic designs.
As you can expect, equipment like the grappling hook Grappleshot and new shield-type items like Drop Wall or Repulsor can quickly change the flow of a firefight. And in terms of customization, Halo Infinite‘s Armor Hall offers more per-piece customization options than any prior game from helmets to visors, gloves, shoulder pads, and more. Creative head Joseph Staten added that work has already started for the “first year of content.” Some of them include the first season content called Heroes of Reach and the brand-new Yoroi armor which you can unlock just by playing events in Season 1.
Interestingly, customization doesn’t stop at armor (and the controversial coatings system). You can change and equip Personal AI during multiplayer matches. It will deliver helpful voice notification, humorous quips, and shows up as a hologram when you’re capturing objectives. The development team said that the in-game user interface will be customizable too, helping you make more distinct friend-foe outlines and work as accessibility options as well.
Personalized AI and user interface aren’t the only new thing coming with Halo Infinite multiplayer experience. To help you familiarize yourself before jumping in online, the game will have a Spartan Academy mode where NPC Spartan Commander Laurette will help you learn the maps, how weapons and equipment works, as well as practicing in bot matches. When Halo Infinite releases this holiday, it will also launch with a bigger and better Big Team Battle, supporting 24 players on large vehicle-friendly maps, promised to tap into the full potential of Halo sandbox.
If you can’t wait to know more about Halo Infinite multiplayer features and customization options, 343 Industries promises to talk more about them in the next few days. The team is also planning to do limited technical previews or “flighting” just like what they do with the Halo: The Master Chief Collection‘s development to gather player’ feedback and feature input. If you want to be part of beta testers, simply join the Halo Insider program and hope you’re selected. Stay tuned at The Nerd Stash for upcoming details about Halo Infinite‘s campaign and multiplayer features.
