Microsoft and developer Halo Studios announced Thursday via Xbox Wire that four-player cooperative PvE mode Firefight will arrive in Halo: Campaign Evolved as a free update this winter, alongside 25th anniversary celebrations for Halo and Xbox. The addition is the first official multiplayer mode for the modernized remake; its July 2026 launch excluded multiplayer. The free update will roll out across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Tahir Hasangjekaj, Director of Competitive Engagement at Halo Studios, said attendees at Thursday's Xbox FanFest in Seattle became the first players to go hands-on with Firefight across brand-new maps. Players tested cooperative wave defense using the remake's expanded weapon sandbox during the live anniversary broadcast event. Halo Studios confirmed it will share additional details and offer public weekend playtests during Halo Fest in Seattle on December 12 and 13, 2026.
Writing on Xbox Wire, Hasangjekaj said: "For nearly two decades, Firefight has been a Halo favorite, challenging Spartans to team up, hold the line, and survive wave after wave of enemies. The tradition continues this winter as we add the four-player cooperative PvE mode to Halo: Campaign Evolved in a free update." All existing owners across supported consoles and PC platforms will receive the cooperative expansion at no additional charge.
The base release is a high-definition remake of Halo: Combat Evolved. It introduced nine additional iconic series weapons, updated cinematics, remastered audio, and drivable Wraith tanks alongside classic campaign missions. Developers added a three-mission Operation: Meteorite storyline featuring Master Chief and Sgt. Johnson. Campaign Evolved supports two-player local split-screen co-op on consoles and four-player online co-op with full crossplay and cross-progression across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
