“Halo” (2022) – A Bold Take on a Legendary Game, But Does It Hit the Mark?

The Halo (2022) TV series was one of the most highly anticipated video game adaptations, bringing to life the epic battle between humanity and the alien Covenant in the 26th century. While it boasts a grand sci-fi setting and characters inspired by the beloved Halo franchise, the show has sparked debate due to its storytelling choices and significant departures from the game’s source material.

A New Narrative Approach

The show follows Master Chief John-117 (played by Pablo Schreiber), a genetically enhanced Spartan super-soldier serving under the United Nations Space Command (UNSC). From the very first episodes, Halo immerses viewers in a brutal war between humans and the technologically superior Covenant, an alien alliance hell-bent on humanity’s destruction.

However, instead of focusing solely on large-scale battles, the series delves into Master Chief’s psyche. One of the most controversial decisions was having him remove his helmet early in the show—a stark contrast to the games, where his face remains hidden, reinforcing his mythic status. Additionally, Halo introduces new characters, such as Kwan Ha, a rebellious girl from Madrigal, who embarks on her own storyline tied to the fight for independence from the UNSC.

The series also highlights internal conflicts within the UNSC, portraying the organization as not just humanity’s protector but also a morally ambiguous entity with dark secrets—especially regarding the Spartan-II program, where children were abducted and transformed into super-soldiers. Master Chief’s growing disillusionment with the very system he once served is a crucial element driving the plot forward.

Strengths of the Story

One of Halo’s strongest aspects is its expansive world-building, staying true to many core elements from the games, such as the Covenant, UNSC, Halo Rings, and the Spartan program. The show effectively portrays the Covenant’s menacing presence, particularly through the character Makee, a human raised by the Covenant who serves as a bridge between the two factions.

The series also delivers thrilling action sequences. From the very first episode, audiences are treated to intense battles, including a brutal fight between the Spartans and the Covenant on Madrigal. Some of these scenes incorporate first-person perspectives, reminiscent of the games, which adds to the immersive experience.

The Controversial Aspects

Despite its strengths, Halo has faced significant criticism, especially from longtime fans of the franchise. The biggest issue lies in the portrayal of Master Chief. Many felt that by frequently removing his helmet and showing more of his emotional side, the show undermined his legendary status.

Additionally, pacing issues arise as the series often shifts focus away from the main conflict. Kwan Ha’s storyline, while potentially interesting, feels disconnected from the central plot, making some episodes drag unnecessarily. Instead of fully embracing the war between humanity and the Covenant, the show spends too much time on political drama within the UNSC, which might not be what Halo fans expected.

Another point of contention is how the series deviates from the game’s narrative essence. The games focus heavily on large-scale warfare, exploration, and the mystery surrounding the Halo Rings. In contrast, the show prioritizes personal and political conflicts, which, while adding depth, makes it feel less like Halo and more like a generic sci-fi drama.

Halo (2022) is an ambitious project that introduces fresh ideas but doesn’t always land well, particularly with hardcore fans of the franchise. While the world-building, visuals, and action sequences are commendable, the show struggles with character development, pacing, and staying true to the game’s core themes.

With the series now canceled after two seasons, the future of Halo on-screen remains uncertain. If the franchise gets another adaptation, hopefully, the creators will take fan feedback into account—crafting a version that captures the epic scale, action, and mystique that made the games legendary while still delivering a compelling narrative.