Halo Infinite Season 5 is launching with an exciting return: the legendary Master Chief’s Mjolnir Mark V armor from Halo: Combat Evolved. However, this iconic armor set is not going to be a free addition, which is causing some commotion among fans.
As of October 17th, Halo Infinite Season 5 has kicked off, bringing a host of new content to this popular first-person shooter. Players can explore Flood-inspired cosmetics, enjoy fresh maps, delve into new progression paths, and revisit beloved game modes. The highlight of this season is the introduction of the classic Halo: CE Mark V armor to the in-game store, but here’s the catch – it comes at a price. This is quite a departure from the tradition of offering parts of the Mark V armor, like the helmet, as free unlocks through dedicated gameplay in previous Halo titles.
Starting on November 7th, the Mark V armor kit will be available in the shop, and it includes the Viridescent Ring armor coating, Cinder Ring armor coating, and Aurum Evolved visor. These additions offer players greater flexibility in customizing their Spartan’s appearance when equipped as part of an Armor Kit.
While this is a positive feature, the community is left in suspense regarding the cost, and the fact that it’s a premium item has raised eyebrows. John Junyszek, the senior community manager at Halo, confirmed on Twitter that the Mark V would be a premium offering but didn’t provide a clear price.
The absence of a cost in the official announcement feels unusual, especially considering the historical practice of offering this iconic armor for free to dedicated players. While Halo Infinite has adopted a different monetization model, with free multiplayer and various unlock paths, this change has left fans somewhat bewildered.
Previously, the classic HAZOP armor was available in the Halo Infinite shop for 2,000 credits, which may serve as an indicator of what the Mark V could cost. The disappointment lies in the fact that 343 Industries is now turning one of the most cherished symbols of the Halo series into a purchasable item, when in the past, it was a reward for dedication and gameplay. This shift has diminished the celebratory aspect of the addition.
Halo Infinite remains a well-played game, consistently offering substantial content with each new season. However, it’s important to remember that it’s also a live service game, and decisions like these, which don’t directly impact gameplay but affect the overall experience, can leave a sour taste in the mouths of long-time fans.
For newcomers considering diving into the Halo Infinite multiplayer experience during Season 5, there’s a comprehensive breakdown of the game’s system requirements compared to your PC’s capabilities. If you’re not into Halo or are looking for alternative gaming options, we’ve got a list of free PC games worth exploring.