No, a game specifically titled "Halo 6" will not happen because the game that chronologically follows Halo 5: Guardians is Halo Infinite, which officially serves as the sixth mainline installment in the acclaimed science fiction first-person shooter series.
Understanding the Halo Series Naming Convention
While previous mainline titles in the series generally followed a numerical progression (Halo 1, 2, 3, 4, 5), the developers opted for a different naming strategy for the sixth core entry. Halo Infinite signifies a new direction and a long-term platform for the franchise, moving beyond simple numerical sequels.
Key Facts about the Sixth Mainline Installment:
- Title: Halo Infinite
- Release Year: 2021
- Developer: 343 Industries
- Publisher: Xbox Game Studios
- Chronological Position: It is the direct sequel to Halo 5: Guardians (2015), making it the sixth primary game in the saga.
Evolution of Mainline Halo Games
To clarify the series' progression and how Halo Infinite fits in, here's a breakdown of the mainline Halo titles:
| Installment Number | Game Title | Release Year | Developer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Halo: Combat Evolved | 2001 | Bungie |
| 2 | Halo 2 | 2004 | Bungie |
| 3 | Halo 3 | 2007 | Bungie |
| 4 | Halo 4 | 2012 | 343 Industries |
| 5 | Halo 5: Guardians | 2015 | 343 Industries |
| 6 | Halo Infinite | 2021 | 343 Industries |
This table clearly illustrates that Halo Infinite occupies the slot that would numerically be "Halo 6." The decision to use "Infinite" instead of a number reflects a strategic pivot for the franchise, aiming for a game that serves as an evolving platform rather than a singular, finite release.
Why "Infinite" Instead of "6"?
The choice of "Infinite" for the sixth installment was deliberate and communicates several intentions:
- Long-Term Platform: Halo Infinite was designed to be a "platform" for the future of Halo, with ongoing content updates, new seasons, and potentially a storyline that continues to expand over many years without requiring a new numbered title.
- New Beginning: It represents a soft reboot for the series' narrative, offering an accessible entry point for new players while continuing the Master Chief's story.
- Broader Vision: The title suggests an expansive scope for the game's world, narrative, and multiplayer offerings.
In summary, while there won't be a game explicitly named "Halo 6," its place in the series' lineage is firmly taken by Halo Infinite.
