Halo: Combat Evolved returns with Unreal Engine 5 remake: Release date, platforms, and key upgrades

Halo: Combat

Halo: Campaign Evolved, a full remake of the original 2001 Halo: Combat Evolved, is set to launch in 2026. Rebuilt in Unreal Engine 5, it offers modernised visuals, updated gameplay, and new missions while remaining faithful to the classic experience.

Halo Studios and Microsoft have announced a full remake of the original Halo: Combat Evolved, titled Halo: Campaign Evolved. The remake, revealed on 24 October, is scheduled for a 2026 release and promises to reintroduce the franchise to a new generation of players while retaining the essence of the 2001 classic.

The game will be available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC through both Xbox and Steam platforms. Full Xbox Cloud Gaming and Game Pass support will be included, with day-one access for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers.

Rebuilt entirely in Unreal Engine 5, Halo: Campaign Evolved delivers 4K visuals, re-recorded voice lines, updated animations, and remastered music. Halo Studios aims to preserve the emotion and atmosphere of the original campaign while enhancing it with modern technology. The remake will exist alongside the original game rather than replacing it, offering a “modern evolution” that honours its roots.

The campaign is expanded with three new prequel missions, introducing additional characters, enemies, and environments to enrich the storyline. Classic missions have been redesigned for better pacing, improved navigation, and enhanced environmental storytelling. Iconic levels, such as The Library, have been reworked to maintain tension while improving player flow.

Gameplay sees a mix of nostalgia and innovation. Nine new weapons from across the Halo series, including the Energy Sword, Battle Rifle, and Needle Rifle, have been added. Vehicle mechanics have been enhanced, letting players hijack vehicles and even pilot the Covenant Wraith tank. Optional sprinting, a revamped Skull system with unprecedented modifiers, and full four-player online co-op are included, alongside two-player split-screen support on consoles.

Executive Producer Damon Conn explained that starting with the original campaign ensures the game is accessible to new players while remaining familiar to longtime fans. Players will also have a chance to experience the game firsthand at the Halo World Championships, previewing the rebuilt environments and gameplay improvements.