‘Halo: The Master Chief Collection’ Content and Playlist Updates Surface As New Toys Become Available To Fans

The latest update for ‘Halo: The Master Chief Collection” will be bringing in some fundamental changes to the system. While there is still no release date for the next content update, developer 343 Industries did confirm that it is already in the last stage of testing and bug fixing.

Apart from the content updates, there is also the expected “Halo: The Master Chief Collection” playlist updates coming later on. Adding to the inclusion of Team Snipers in the featured playlist, there will also be custom map variants for permanent and featured playlists. The developer explained that this wasn’t done immediately since the team is still working on a fix for an issue specific to “Halo 3.” So when the fix becomes available, there will be tournament maps, maps with specific on-map weapons and Forge maps coming, among others.

Finally, 343 Industries has allowed fans a sneak peek of the concept art for the upcoming Relic multiplayer map on “Halo 2: Anniversary.” A new screenshot showing off the environment in Relic had been released, as seen via Halo Waypoint, the official blog for Halo. In addition, there are some new information about what’s to come in the multiplayer map.

Some points to look forward to include a new weathered Forerunner architecture and the island in Relic is revealed to be an underwater landmass made of sand, rock and coral. For the environment, as can also be seen in the screenshot, it will have a heavier atmosphere with ominous clouds ahead.

“Halo” has also made a big impression to fans at the recent Toy Fair 2015. From toys to action figures, and even to replica shooters, there are a lot of new toys from the franchise. According to the Xbox Wire, Halo developer 343 Industries has teamed up with Mattel and BOOMco so that fans can enjoy some of Halo items in real life.

“It’s one of the first time we’re bringing the Halo world of life with authentic blasters. You’ll be able to have that Halo experience in the real world,” said James Monosmith, marketing manager for 343 Industries, over at the Xbox Wire.

The authenticity here goes way beyond the look—it’s also in how the shooters feel. Whatever players see in “Halo” are reflected in the toy weapons, from the rapid-firing clips to the glowing zipping effect, minus, of course, the deadly outcome.

But even more interesting is the introduction of new characters and items from “Halo 5: Guardians.” More than the cool vehicles and weapons, there are also a few characters whose roles are yet to be revealed. Most of the toys are still in the prototype stage, but are set to release later this year. These may be just in time for “Halo 5: Guardians,” which is also set to release in late 2015. “Halo” is about to get wilder and more fun in and out of the Xbox console.

(Credit: YouTube/HaloFollower)

Read more gaming news:

Xbox One March System Update and Deeper Look at the DirectX 12 Difference Hint at the Console's Future

Battlefield Hardline Dinosaur and Wolf Masks Coming, Multiplayer Map Concept Art Explored

Minecraft 1.8.2 Pre-Release Out as Dev Explores Life After Minecraft

Have feedback or game tips? Leave a message at g.galang@ibtimes.com.au.