Update #5: This is the final update on this story. For continuing coverage of the ongoing Halo: The Master Chief Collection problems, you can read our follow-up.

Update #4: Microsoft has cleared the Halo-related items from the ongoing service alert.

Update #3: Microsoft has added leaderboard problems to the list of Halo woes. A new statement on the Xbox Live support page.

Xbox members, if you are having a tough time matchmaking in Halo: The Master Chief Collection, please restart your search. We are aware that some users are experiencing longer than normal matchmaking search times. We are actively working on a fix.



If you are having issues matchmaking in Destiny, hang in there. We’re steadily moving toward a resolution, and we appreciate your patience in the meantime. Another update is coming your way in half an hour.



We know that some of you are also having trouble posting statistics to leaderboards and viewing the online state of other users on your Friends list. As you read this message, we’re working to get everything straightened out. We’re grateful for your patience during this process and invite you to check back in 30 minutes for an update on our progress.

Update #2: The official Halo account has offered more news on the Halo matchmaking problems. A fix has been deployed, but the work isn't done yet.

"We're aware of issues some have been having with matchmaking and we’re working around the clock, alongside the Xbox Live team, to address," 343 Industries says via Twitter. "We've also deployed an update that has shown some improvement, and we work around the clock to optimize. This is our top priority."

Update #1: Microsoft has responded to our request for comment on the Halo: The Master Chief Collection multiplayer problems.

"We’re seeing longer than expected Matchmaking times for some regions, as the game is not yet available in all regions," a representative told us via email. "Matching times will improve as we continue to roll out. If you do not find a match after a few minutes, please restart your search.”

Original Story:

If you're hoping to take the fight to your friends online in the newly released Halo: The Master Chief Collection, be prepared for some obstacles. Users are reporting matchmaking issues with the game.



The official Halo Twitter account confirms that there are issues with the matchmaking side of the experience. "We're aware that some users are experiencing longer than normal Matchmaking search times," 343 Industries writes. "We are actively working on a fix for this issue."



The developer does suggest a workaround in event of problems. "If after a few minutes you're unable to find a match, exit Matchmaking and then begin searching again," 343 says.



Halo: The Master Chief Collection uses Microsoft's Azure platform for dedicated servers during gameplay. We've reached out to Microsoft with a request for more information on how matchmaking is handled and when a fix for these problems is expected.

For more on The Master Chief Collection, check out our review. You can also read up on the Halo 5 Multiplayer beta in our hands-on preview.



[Source: Halo on Twitter (1), (2)]







Our Take

My understanding is that using Microsoft's cloud server technology was supposed to make for smoother launches. We'd like to understand what's gone wrong here and why the publisher and developer weren't ready for launch of one of the platform's biggest exclusives this fall.