Halo 5 dev clarifies multiplayer microtransactions

Halo 5 will feature microtransactions, a point that has worried fans of the franchise. Halo 5 development chief Josh Holmes has tried to address concerns in a post on Halo Waypoint.

Thu, 18 Jun, 2015 - 01:00

The upcoming title features a new Requisition System (REQ). This system works across Halo 5’s two multiplayer experiences: Arena and Warzone. Every match played earns players REQ Points, which can then be used to purchase REQ Packs.

These packs include a variety of requisitions (REQs), including unlockable weapons and armours, skins, assassination animations and more. But players will also be able to purchase REQ packs with real money. A portion of the proceeds generated will go toward prize pools for the Halo Championship Series.

Holmes clarified that only cosmetic items can be used in Arena, which is Halo 5's more traditional competitive multiplayer mode.

Warzone, Halo 5’s player versus player versus AI mode for up to 24 players set on massive maps, seems to be a different story. Players will be able to use weapons and vehicles from their inventory of REQs. These are balanced, according to Holmes, by Warzone's in-match REQ Level and Energy systems, which are driven by player and team performance within the mode.

Holmes says that the REQ system “is designed to generously reward players with a steady stream of content to keep gameplay fresh. We'll be continuing to release new REQ content, post launch, so there are always new toys to play with.” He added that all REQ content can be earned by playing multiplayer.