With the 25th anniversary of both Halo and the Xbox console fast approaching, Xbox has confirmed significant celebratory plans are underway. This news, revealed during a recent interview, also sheds light on Xbox's expanding business strategy, particularly in licensing and merchandising.

Xbox's Expanding Licensing and Merchandising Efforts

Xbox boasts ambitious plans to commemorate the milestone anniversaries of Halo and the Xbox console. In an interview with License Global Magazine, John Friend, Xbox's head of consumer products, highlighted the company's achievements and its increasing focus on licensing and merchandising. This strategic shift mirrors the successful cross-media expansions seen with other major franchises like Fallout and Minecraft, which have branched into television and film.

Friend confirmed that comprehensive plans are being developed for the 25th anniversary, stating, "We have these massive, fantastic franchises... We’re building plans for the 25th anniversary of ‘Halo’ and Xbox—we have such a rich heritage and history, and these communities have been active for so long, you have to celebrate that." While specifics remain undisclosed, the commitment to a substantial celebration is clear.

Halo's Legacy and Future

Halo's 25th anniversary arrives in 2026, marking a quarter-century since the launch of Halo: Combat Evolved. The franchise has generated over $6 billion in revenue and holds immense historical significance for Xbox as its launch title. Beyond its commercial success, Halo has expanded into novels, comics, and most recently, a critically acclaimed Paramount+ television series.

Friend emphasized a strategic approach to these celebrations, stating, "it’s important to assess a franchise and a community... and make sure that you’re designing a program that’s additive to fans and building fandom."

Halo 3: ODST's 15th Anniversary

Separately, Halo 3: ODST recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a commemorative 100-second YouTube video. The game remains playable on PC as part of Halo: The Master Chief Collection, which also includes Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Halo 2: Anniversary, Halo 3, Halo: Reach, and Halo 4.