The *Halo Infinite* "Summer 2025 Update," now live and running until June 10, brings a wave of fresh content to the game. This latest update introduces new playlists, the devastating Mutilator power weapon, updated sandbox mechanics, enhanced Forge tools, expanded Weapon Bench options, and more. Additionally, players upgrading to the Premium Operation Pass gain access to 50 extra tiers, four new armor sets, bonus XP opportunities, and an additional challenge slot.

While some fans view this as a welcome addition, others wonder if it's too little, too late. Over the past few years, *Halo Infinite* has undergone major transformations, including the rebranding of its developer from 343 Industries to Halo Studios. This shift followed a sharp decline in player numbers after launch, as fans voiced concerns over limited content, flawed progression systems, aggressive monetization, and the cancellation of a highly anticipated battle royale mode—once touted as a “game changer.”

However, many believe that *Halo Infinite* has evolved into one of the strongest entries in the franchise. In a Reddit thread titled "Halo Infinite REALLY should do a 'relaunch' ad campaign. It's just not the same game as at launch. Not even close," a returning player shared their surprise: "I can't imagine anyone who enjoys Halo but hasn’t given this game a second chance—or hasn’t played since launch—would be disappointed coming back. The general gaming public likely doesn’t realize how much has changed and been added."

They continued, "I hadn’t played for months and came back to three new guns, dozens of new maps, multiple firefight modes, and countless unlockables. That’s just from my short break. I truly believe a well-produced trailer showcasing all these updates would bring a massive boost in perception and player engagement."

Another fan chimed in: "I see so many outdated criticisms online that haven’t been true for years. Three new equipment types, five new weapons, hundreds of maps, ten new modes, tons of armor customization, a vastly improved free credit shop, quadruple the ranked playlist options, and a career rank system. Plus, nearly a thousand tiers across the Battle Passes, with one being completely free and offering top-tier armor. The Forge is incredible, custom games are thriving, and Firefight feels better than ever."

Fans have grown increasingly vocal about the improvements. One user stated, "I’ve never left the game, and watching it evolve has been rewarding. It’s easily the best Halo since *Halo 3* and the finest work 343 has ever delivered." Another added, "It's the best arena shooter on Xbox right now. It fills a void that even Call of Duty struggles to cover."

Of course, not everyone shares the enthusiasm. One user admitted, "This image represents the last bit of hope I had. I genuinely think Halo’s time is over—the people who knew how to capture its magic are gone."

Halo Games in Chronological Order

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In another community discussion sparked by the iconic marketing image of Master Chief holding his helmet beside his leg, one player shared: "I really love *Halo Infinite*. I've been playing since Season 1 and it reignited my passion for a series I stopped following during *Halo 4*. The Spartan customization is unmatched, and the rotating game modes keep things fresh. Custom games are fun, the campaign is enjoyable, and the music is outstanding."

Another added, "I’m approaching my first Onyx rank and am on track to reach max career rank—the first Halo title I’ve stuck with long enough to achieve that. The gameplay feels fluid and natural, blending classic elements with modern touches like sprinting, which works incredibly well here. As much as I adore the original games, *Halo Infinite* offers the most satisfying gameplay experience yet."

IGN awarded *Halo Infinite*'s single-player campaign a 9/10 in our IGN Halo Infinite review, praising it as exactly what the series needed: "It brings out the best in Master Chief's unique and satisfying combat style while leveraging old ideas to create memorable new moments. Its story falls short for both new and veteran players, but it was worth the six-year wait."

With Microsoft pushing forward its strategy of releasing first-party titles on multiple platforms, some Xbox fans are speculating whether *Halo Infinite* could eventually make its way to PlayStation, following the likes of *Forza Horizon 5* and *Gears of War*. Back in November, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer confirmed there are no longer any “red lines” within the company’s first-party lineup, leaving the possibility open.