Halo: Combat Evolved Remake Not Being Made, Microsoft Focusing On Reach

Rumors are a good way to see that a particular market is strong. Especially if the rumor mill starts picking up one rumor in particular, and you start hearing it whispered in every which direction. There's a rumor that's been floating around for a little while now, but it has begun picking up steam in the last few days. So much so, in fact, that Microsoft has felt the need to step in and clarify the situation. The rumor, is that 343 Industries and Microsoft have already begun work on their next yearly installment within the Halo franchise: an HD, remade Halo: Combat Evolved.

The rumor picked up speed when Games Master magazine ran a story that made a few assumptions that the Halo: CE remake was underway at 343 Industries. The development studio is the new home for the Halo franchise, so it would be expected that if a remake was being made, it would happen here. The HD-fused title would be made using the Halo: Reach engine.

But, Microsoft decided to step in, and squash some people's dreams right out of the gate. According to the company, "Right now our focus is on supporting Halo: Reach. We have nothing to announce at this time." Sure, that's a denial to some people, but obviously Microsoft left some (major) room to wiggle in and out of there if they need to. So, some might consider that anything but a denial. Is a remake coming? It's a possibility, and it would mean that a Halo title could be an "easy" launch for next year. Anyone crossing their fingers for this?

[via Joystiq]