"If we lose our way with Halo, we lose our way with Xbox," says Spencer

Microsoft Game Studios boss Phil Spencer has admitted that the Xbox platform would lose its way if the same happened with the Halo IP.

"If we lose our way with Halo, we lose our way with Xbox, because Halo and the importance of games like CoD and other shooters, that state of the art needs to continue to move forward, and our team at 343 need to move forward with that. That's always going to be one of our success criteria," Spencer told OXM UK.

But don't panic just yet: 343 Industries has garnered the time to learn the ins and outs of the series.

"The good thing about 343 is that they've had the time, through the dev of Reach, working on getting the map packs out, and getting to know the infrastructure and the build systems and everything about Halo.

"They've also brought in their own talent and their own view so that they can put their own stamp on the franchise," he added. All in all, 343 are "in a position to take over the franchise without missing a beat."

343 currently has Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary in development for the tenth anniversary of the series, as well as kick off a new trilogy with Halo 4 next holiday season.