Halo’s Next Multiplayer Project Ekur Shifts to Big Team Battle

The next Halo multiplayer project has changed direction from an extraction shooter to a big team battle format. This shift matters to players waiting for the series' future, as it signals a return to large-scale combat rather than smaller squad-based survival gameplay. Fans tracking the franchise's evolution will see how this design choice influences long-term engagement with new titles.

The Halo Studios project originally prototyped by Certain Affinity now features AI squadmates and deep customization options.

The project currently operates under the codename Ekur and involves multiple development teams. Certain Affinity originally built an early prototype using Unreal Engine 5 to test importing assets from Halo Infinite. The studio successfully imported assets and tested the engine feel by June 2023, establishing a technical foundation for the game.

Development responsibilities have shifted back to the core studio after the initial prototype phase. Halo Studios, formerly known as 343 Industries, now handles internal development following Certain Affinity's work. This transition places the project under direct oversight from the franchise's primary creators.

The updated concept features a Super Big Team Battle mode with artificial intelligence squadmates and deep customization options for Spartan and Elite characters. The game may launch as a standalone title or bundle with other releases. Players can expect extensive character personalization tools integrated into the large-scale multiplayer experience.