Halo Infinite will have split-screen co-op at launch, reaffirms 343 Industries

(Image credit: 343 Industries)

Following the Xbox Games Showcase and our first look at Halo Infinite in action on Xbox Series X, there's been plenty of questions. Would, for example, Halo Infinite really feature split-screen co-op, given how large its new open spaces are? 

GamesRadar sat in on a roundtable interview with developers from 343 Industries following the reveal, and studio head Chris Lee was emphatic in his confirmation: "We will have split-screen and we will have co-op when we launch Halo Infinite." 

While Microsoft had teased that this feature would be returning in the past, it's great to hear that co-op support is coming back straight from the folks who are making it . It is, after all, such a huge part of the series' legacy. That's why it was so disappointing when Halo 5: Guardians axed couch co-op, ruining the time honored tradition of screaming at friends while pushing through whatever punishing difficulty combination we could create between Legendary mode and a fine selection of Skulls. 

Still, even with online multiplayer being the focus of most games these days, it's fantastic to see 343 committing to bringing split-screen co-op back to Halo. That isn't the only thing coming back, mind. 343 has also confirmed that Master Chief will be the only protagonist – following the somewhat tepid response Halo 5 faced from the decision to have Chief share the spotlight with Agent Locke. 

That isn't all we've learned today. We've also found out that the Halo Infinite open world includes a day/night cycle, upgrades, and more. There's still plenty more on Halo Infinite to come, with the game schedule to launch later this year for Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC. 

Did you miss the Xbox Games Showcase? Check out every trailer revealed from it here

Josh West
UK Managing Editor, GamesRadar+

Josh West is the UK Managing Editor of GamesRadar+. He has over 10 years experience in online and print journalism, and holds a BA (Hons) in Journalism and Feature Writing. Prior to starting his current position, Josh has served as GR+'s Features Editor and Deputy Editor of games™ magazine, and has freelanced for numerous publications including 3D Artist, Edge magazine, iCreate, Metal Hammer, Play, Retro Gamer, and SFX. Additionally, he has appeared on the BBC and ITV to provide expert comment, written for Scholastic books, edited a book for Hachette, and worked as the Assistant Producer of the Future Games Show. In his spare time, Josh likes to play bass guitar and video games. Years ago, he was in a few movies and TV shows that you've definitely seen but will never be able to spot him in.