Following weeks of speculation regarding the role of artificial intelligence in the development of upcoming Halo projects, Halo Studios has officially addressed the matter, confirming that AI is being utilized in limited capacities to assist with production workflows. Studio leadership emphasized, however, that human creativity remains the driving force behind the franchise’s development and identity.
During a recent interview with Rolling Stone, studio representative Damon Conn explained the team’s stance on the subject. “I want to be very clear … People are creative. People make games. AI can improve workflows. It can do things for the game,” Conn stated. He further elaborated, “But I want to be very specific and clear that the people are the ones who are creating the game, and there’s an opportunity to improve a workflow, or something along those lines, we’ll look at it again. It really should be additive to the creation of a game.”
When asked directly whether generative AI was being used to produce any visual or audio assets in the upcoming Halo title, game director Greg Hermann provided additional clarity. “It’s a tool in a toolbox,” Hermann said. “I may go a little off message here, but some of that gets very challenging when we look at how integrated AI is becoming within our tooling. We use Photoshop. There’s generative fill, for example. The boundary lines can get a little fuzzy. I will say, though, again, to Damon’s point, it really is about that creative spark that comes from people and improving just overall workflows.”
Their statements come after a wave of community debate sparked by earlier reports from popular YouTuber and insider Rebs Gaming, who had mentioned that Halo Studios was incorporating generative AI into several areas of its ongoing projects. The comment quickly gained traction across social media, leading to widespread assumptions that the studio was heavily automating creative processes. In response, Rebs Gaming later clarified that his remarks were misinterpreted.
“Many people are misinterpreting what I reported as if it directly confirms AI is being used in all the wrong ways and Halo is doomed. I did NOT report that,” he wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “I have begun reaching out to sources to figure out specifics about how Halo Studios is using generative AI.” Rebs also noted that AI in game development is not inherently negative, stressing that “misuse of the technology” is what typically raises concern among fans and professionals alike.
The clarification was intended to correct online speculation that suggested Halo Studios was shifting toward heavy AI reliance. Rebs reiterated, “I reported AI is being woven into all areas, I didn’t say it’s being relied on for every major aspect.” His response sought to redirect the conversation toward understanding how AI can serve as a tool to improve efficiency rather than as a substitute for artistic labor.
Halo Studios’ comments indicate that while AI has found a place within the broader creative pipeline—often integrated into programs like Photoshop or other standard tools—its role remains supportive rather than foundational. The team’s leadership has made it clear that every major creative decision and output continues to stem from human artistry and craftsmanship.
This clarification arrives shortly after the studio’s major announcement confirming Halo: Campaign Evolved, a rebuilt version of the original Halo: Combat Evolved, which is set to release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in 2026. With the studio’s growing focus on cross-platform experiences and modernized development practices, its cautious but transparent approach to AI integration reflects an evolving industry where efficiency and creativity increasingly intersect.
