Halo 5 has Gone Gold

Halo 5 is now available for per-purchase and pre-download on Xbox says Microsoft and 343 Industries. The next game in the HALO franchise is sure to be a big seller as early previews are indicating good things.

We will have a full review of Halo 5 around launch, so stay tuned to Games Reviews to see what we think of the latest in the franchise. I had the opportunity to play the Halo 5 multiplayer BETA as well as get more hands on time with the multiplayer at X15 in Toronto. There is no doubt about: Halo 5 is the best Halo game to date.

We are looking forward to a number of things. During a single player demo at X15, a 343 staffer showed up vertical game play. While the average Halo level will still be played linearly, we are being teased with game play that shows Spartans jumping up on top of boxes to get a more strategic vantage point. While this could technically be done in past Halo games, it appears intentional this time around.

One thing we are very disappointed about is the lack of local couch cooperative play and couch multiplayer. For a variety of reasons, 343 has stated that this just isn’t possible if the team hopes to keep the game running smoothly and without issue. Only time will tell if this decision was wise.

Stay tuned to Games Reviews for more on Halo 5 in the coming weeks.