Halo: Campaign Evolved Collector's Edition Brings Back a Relic of Gaming's Past

Halo: Campaign Evolved isn't just a remake of a 25-year-old game—it's a revival of the era it came from. Yesterday, Microsoft confirmed that the campaign-only remake of the original Halo will finally launch in late July, and it's doing so in style. The company is releasing two special editions: a standard digital-only version with in-game extras, and a pricey physical collector's edition that celebrates Halo in a big way. This collector's edition includes in-game items, a 12-inch Master Chief statue, a steelbook case, and art prints. But the standout item is a "reimagined" version of the original game's manual.

Video game manuals have been largely obsolete for over a decade. The last time games came with detailed manuals was during the Xbox 360 and PS3 era, which eventually saw them replaced by basic pamphlets with safety warnings and legal notices. No more detailed write-ups, pictures, or tips. This shift was partly to save costs and paper, but also because the internet made manuals redundant—anything you need to know can be found online. Consoles themselves now incorporate helpful features in-game. This has devalued the physical package, and collector's editions for PlayStation games often don't even include a disc, catering to digital-only PS5 owners.

Physical media enthusiasts have been frustrated, but Xbox is trying to make amends with this Halo collector's edition. It includes a physical manual inspired by the original, and a disc for Xbox or PS5 versions. However, it seems the disc won't contain the full game—the standard edition packaging notes a download will be required.

In related news, Halo: Campaign Evolved dropped a new trailer today, captured on PS5 Pro. The disclaimer was peculiar, especially given Xbox's recent messaging about exclusives and brand power.

Halo: Campaign Evolved launches July 28 for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC. Premium and collector's edition owners get five days of early access.