Following one of the biggest years in Halo esports history with record viewership and participation, we’re excited to announce a new partnership between 343 Industries and Major League Gaming (MLG) to take the Halo Championship Series (HCS) to the next level.

The HCS league and brand were born out of the desire to create a platform for the best Halo players in the world – to tell their stories and provide a stage for their incredible talent. It’s an investment back into the Halo community, honoring Halo’s rich esports legacy while laying the groundwork for Halo titles and Halo esports as a whole.

For most of 2017, the HCS team at 343 Industries have been hard at work on some fundamental changes – changes in the way we communicate with our fans, players, and team organizations, changes in our events and format structure, and changes in the tournament organizers that we partner with.

Interwoven in Halo’s deep history in competitive gaming is MLG. Before esports became a household phrase, “Halo: Combat Evolved” was one of the top titles in competitive gaming due in part to the passion and dedication of then start-up Major League Gaming. As Halo grew into the one of gaming’s most legendary franchises, so too did MLG, creating its reputation for incredible production, storytelling and event experiences. We watched as local hometown heroes became global icons on the MLG mainstage, and their stories continue to be told today in the Halo Championship Series.

For 2018, 343 Industries and MLG are partnered up to work hand-in-hand in overseeing the Halo Championship Series, beginning with the next Halo World Championship. 343 Industries esports lead Elizabeth Van Wyck said, “MLG is one of the world’s premier esports organizations, and we’re thrilled to partner with them to take the Halo Championship Series to the next level with unforgettable live-events and unrivaled community-building experiences.”

“We’re excited about the opportunity to reconnect with Halo esports fans around the world and deliver a truly memorable Halo Championship Series in 2018,” said Adam Apicella, MLG VP of league event operations. “Working with Microsoft and 343 Industries again is the perfect way to begin an incredible year, and we look forward to celebrating Halo’s top players and showcasing their talents to the community.”

We can remember watching those legendary MLG Halo tournaments dating back to over a decade ago, and we’re excited to work with a team as passionate about Halo and its community as we are here at 343.

The Halo World Championship kicks off on Jan. 13 worldwide on MLG’s Gamebattles tournament platform, with the first event of the Halo World Championship 2018 season taking place in Orlando from Feb. 16-18. For more details on today’s announcements, including dates, cities, and formats, head on over to HaloWaypoint.com.

A new chapter in the Halo Championship Series begins in 2018, and we hope you’ll join us!