Frank O'Connor: 343 Industries trying to avoid Halo oversaturation

As Microsoft's go-to mascot, Master Chief's got his face iconic visor on everything from Slurpee cups to jewelry. But, believe it or not, Halo handler 343 Industries doesn't want Master Chief mania to get out of hand. In fact, 343 boss Frank O'Connor's quite frightened by the prospect.

"I worry about that constantly," he told Joystiq.

Concerning Halo merchandise, he added:

"All of that stuff has existed in the past, and it exists because of one simple reason, which is demand. We wouldn't make it if we weren't continually being asked for it. We obviously turn down almost infinitely more stuff than we actually produce, but when we produce it there's a good reason and a good plan and a strong demand."

O'Connor offered Halo's spin on the classic boardgame Risk as an example. Apparently, boardgame manufacturers had received requests for the twisted spawn of Halo and Risk, so 343 happily obliged. "Even if there is a demand," O'Connor added, "if it doesn't actually make sense and it's completely crazy, we won't do it."

Now, would a Halo-themed version of one of those grabby claws - called, of course, "The Halo Reach" - be considered "crazy"? Because we're willing to negotiate rights for the patent.