With the PS5 and Xbox Series X release dates creeping ever closer, Microsoft and Sony are doing their best to hype their upcoming next-gen consoles.
This week has been a particularly fruitful one for Microsoft, who have been backed by one of the most influential figures in the gaming industry.
The company has also made a huge Xbox Series X announcement that could turn the tide in its favour.
In a recent interview on New Zealand television, Valve co-founder and industry legend Gabe Newell was asked to pick between the Xbox Series X and PS5.
Without hesitation, Newell said that the Xbox Series X is the better console, and that he would “definitely go with an Xbox” if he had to choose between the two.
While it’s worth pointing out that Newell used to work for Microsoft, the Valve founder pointed out that he had no particular loyalty to either company.
“I don’t have a stake in that race,” Newell elaborated. “We do most of our development on personal computers, but of the two I would definitely go with an Xbox.”
Microsoft would follow up this ringing endorsement by announcing plans to make Halo Infinite’s multiplayer component a free-to-play experience.
Not only that, but the upcoming Halo sequel will support 120 frames-per-second on the Microsoft console.
“Halo is for everyone,” reads a 343 tweet. “We can confirm #HaloInfinite multiplayer will be free-to-play and will support 120FPS on Xbox Series X. More details will be shared later!”
While it’s unclear whether fans will need a Gold subscription to access the multiplayer content, it’s great news for fans hoping to save a little cash during the Xbox Series X launch period.
Personally, I think Microsoft will probably adopt a similar Battle Pass model used in games like Call of Duty and Fortnite.
Indeed, expect an expanded form of the current season model currently found in the Halo Master Chief Collection on Xbox One and Windows PC.
The news comes just weeks after Halo Infinite gameplay was shown during Microsoft’s Xbox Series X showcase.
The upcoming Halo sequel is described as the biggest and most ambitious entry in the series yet.
This was evident during the recent gameplay demo, which saw Master Chief explore the lush open game world in the Warthog.
“Halo Infinite is the most ambitious Halo game ever made, with an environment several times larger than the last two Halo games combined.
“Players can explore an expansive landscape filled with sprawling natural wonder, mystery, and a story that welcomes those new to the franchise as well as continues the Master Chief’s saga for our most dedicated fans.”