Award-winning filmmaker Steven Spielberg will executive produce an original “Halo” television series based on the popular video games. It will have exclusive interactive Xbox One content.

The blockbuster game franchise inspired a 90-minute Web series, “Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn,” that put the video game’s protagonist, Master Chief, at the center of the cinematic action. The fall release helped drive sales of the “Halo 4" game. The games have sold more than 50 million titles.


Now, Spielberg will continue exploring the space marine’s narrative in a live-action TV series based on “Halo’s” universe.

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“I’m thrilled to anounce a live-action partnership with 343 Industries and one of the best storytellers of all time: Mr. Steven Spielberg,” said Bonnie Ross, general manager of Microsoft’s 343 Industries studio, which manages the “Halo” franchise.

Spielberg appeared via video at the Microsoft One next-generation console launch to say he has been a lifelong gamer who began playing in the era of “Pong.” As the technology has evolved, he said, the interactive worlds and stories grew more compelling.


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“For me, the ‘Halo’ universe is an amazing opportunity to be at the intersection where technology and storytelling meet,” Spielberg said.


Nancy Tellem, the former CBS executive who now heads Microsoft Studios, said the newly announced Xbox One game console marks a new era of television — and enables a new type of storytelling.

“Until now the TV viewing experience has been a one-way street for the viewer,” Tellem said. “Now, that’s about to change. TV on the Xbox will immerse you, enable you to virtually jump into the action.”


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