As per the job posting, 343 is hiring a Senior Systems Designer to work on Halo Infinite. The bulk of the listing is what one might expect, indicating that the ideal candidate will have experience with high-level design on AAA games and a specific understanding of the inner-workings of shooter titles. However, one requirement stands out among the rest, as the post emphasizes that applicants should be familiar with RPG mechanics.
There is no further elaboration on this point within the listing, but its inclusion certainly suggests that Halo Infinite may look to bring new mechanics to the franchise. While purely speculative, it does not seem outside of the realm of possibility that these mechanics could be things like more expansive character customization and a heavier focus on gear progression.
Furthermore, this new development aligns nicely with an ongoing community-driven conversation about Halo Infinite — specifically that it may feature an open world. This idea has been fueled not only by the game’s reveal trailer, but also by a statement from 343 that suggests that it will contain “a living, breathing world ripe for exploration and endless gameplay possibilities.”
Perhaps then, players can expect a more open experience from Halo Infinite, one with a focus on gear and replayability over a finite narrative. With games like Monster Hunter: World and Destiny 2 finding success, it certainly makes sense that the Halo franchise would look to go in this direction.
That said, a big question remains: how would those invested in the series respond to such a release? While some fans might welcome these changes as a renewal, others may feel that Halo need not join the growing ranks of open world games with RPG elements. However, until 343 provides more details, fans can simply enjoy dreaming of what Halo Infinite will be.
Halo Infinite is currently in development for Xbox One.
Source: Microsoft
