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Windows Central
Windows Central
Technology
Brendan Lowry

I thought this Halo 2 demo was lost to time, but 20+ years later, I can finally play it this weekend — and you can, too

Halo 2.

What you need to know

  • The demo for Halo 2 shown during E3 2003 was one of the biggest and most iconic pieces of marketing for Bungie's beloved Xbox shooter, but since its engine was scrapped, it never got a public release.
  • Over 20 years later, though, developers from Halo Studios (formerly 343 Industries) have collaborated with community modders to recreate the demo from the ground up using updated versions of its original assets.
  • A playable version of the demo is being released as a free mod for Halo: The Master Chief Collection on the Steam Workshop on November 9 — Halo 2's 20th anniversary.
  • Additionally, on November 5, Halo Infinite is getting a new Operation: Great Journey update with Halo 2-themed cosmetics, maps, a new playlist, and a weapon called the MA5K Avenger that's inspired by Halo 2's SMG.
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