Free Halo Online Predictably Draws The Attention Of Microsoft

Remember that free-to-play version of Halo Online that was being developed by some intrepid modders? The one that had a big patch last Friday? The one that seemed surprising in that it hadn't received any notice of legal action from Microsoft or 343 Industries? Yeah, about that last part ...

According to the ElDewrito blog, while the recent 0.6 update has been a success, it's attracted the wrong kind of attention. The blog links to an official statement from 343 Industries that states that, given 343's and Microsoft's need to protect its IP, the companies have asked ElDewrito to halt development on its project. ElDewrito agrees that the conversation was cordial, and that there was "no Cease and Desist, no DMCA, just an brief conversation about what they suggest we do."

What they'll do, then, is stand by and wait for more information while Microsoft's assets will be taken down. ElDewrito stresses that build 0.6 will still be available to play, and has a lot of numbers to back up just how popular it is. For their part, 343 Industries admit that the desire for an online Halo experience is very strong and offered the slightest hope that something more official could come down the pipe:

One thing remains clear – the community really wants more Halo on PC. As we look ahead, we’re very excited about the prospects of an official classic Halo experience making its way to PC and we hope to be able to partner with the ElDewrito team and broader mod and content creation community to help inform the types of experiences and features our fans desire.

The fact that they're willing to work with ElDewrito is a good sign, at least, and indicates that a legitimate Halo Online -- free-to-play or not -- might someday soon(TM) be realized.