Halo fans finally have a release date to look forward to. During the Xbox Games Showcase, Microsoft confirmed that Halo: Campaign Evolved will launch worldwide on July 28, 2026. The game brings back the classic Halo: Combat Evolved campaign while also adding a brand-new story experience called Operation: METEORITE.
Players who purchase the Premium Edition or Collector’s Edition will be able to start playing up to five days early, beginning on July 23.
One of the biggest highlights revealed during the showcase was Operation: METEORITE. This new three-mission story takes place one year before the events of the original game. It follows Master Chief and Sgt. Johnson as they take part in a secret UNSC mission aboard a Covenant research ship.
The new missions introduce fresh locations, additional enemy types, more weapons from across the Halo series, and new gameplay opportunities. Players will also face dangerous threats such as the Brute Berserker while experiencing parts of the story that expand the Halo universe.
The story behind Operation: METEORITE was developed with the help of science fiction author Troy Denning. Known for his work on several Halo novels, Denning helped create a story that stays true to the military science fiction style that fans expect from the franchise.
Microsoft also confirmed that pre-orders are now live across Xbox, Steam, and PlayStation platforms. Every version of the game includes both the original 10-mission campaign and the new Operation: METEORITE content.
Players who pre-order any edition will receive the Foundry Armory Pack. This bonus pack includes the Classic 2001 Mark V Armor skin, Classic 2001 Assault Rifle skin, Gilded Onyx Armor style, and Gilded Onyx Assault Rifle style.
Halo: Campaign Evolved price
The Standard Edition is priced at $49.99 and includes the complete game. The Premium Edition costs $69.99 and adds early access, the Alpha Halo Armory Pack, and a Digital Story & Art Collection. For dedicated fans, the Collector’s Edition is available for $199.99 and includes physical collectibles such as a Master Chief statue, Steelbook case, concept art prints, and a light-up Cortana chip.
Microsoft also revealed that Halo: Campaign Evolved will support cross-play and cross-progression across Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam, and PlayStation 5. The game will also be available on day one through Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
With a classic campaign, new story missions, and support across multiple platforms, Halo: Campaign Evolved is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Halo releases in years.
