Halo studio allegedly established as â??343′

Rumours are beginning to intensify that Microsoft’s Halo studio has established itself as “343 Industries”.



Last year Microsoft Game Studios hired high-profile talent to its internal Halo studio, snapping up the likes of former MGS4 assistant producer Ryan Payton and Bungie’s Frank O’Connor.


The studio hasn’t established its own name or label, for now, yet rumours arising from a patent filing suggest the internal studio is now called 343 Industries.



As a Gamespot and Kotaku report indicates, the term 343 is significant in the Halo narrative, being the name for a significant character in the game. The rumours seem to be centred on this association.



If true, this would suggest that Microsoft’s internal Halo studio is progressing and has matured into its own distinct brand.



Halo remains one of the most lucrative franchises in gaming. Independent developer Bungie is contracted to develop at least two other Halo games, ODST and Reach.