Gamer's Outpost LLC

by Jeff Grubb

Changes are coming to Halo: The Master Chief Collection, and 343 Industries wants to get things right this time.

The developer announced today that it is inviting people in the Xbox One Preview program to participate in a closed beta for the next update to the sci-fi shooter collection. 343 makes it sound like this is the patch that will bring an end to the connection problems and bugs that have made the Halo bundle a major disappointment for fans. The update will focus on addressing problems with the matchmaking and party systems — both of which gamers have complained about since the game debuted in November. The beta test will go live on Friday, and you can sign up for a chance to take part through the Xbox Preview Dashboard app on your Xbox One if you are enrolled in that program.

“In recent weeks, we have been conducting extensive internal testing of an upcoming content update for Halo: The Master Chief Collection,” reads a blog post on the Halo website. “Given the scale of the update, which includes changes to the matchmaking experience and party system, we are expanding testing to include select members of the Xbox One Preview program to ensure the official release is the best possible experience for all players.”

This testing period is only open to players in North America. 343 explains that this restriction is because it wants as many people up and playing as possible during working hours.

The developer also mentions that you’ll have a better chance of getting into the beta if you spend a lot of time in the Master Chief Collection already.

“Xbox One owners within North America who are part of the Xbox One Preview program and have a copy of Halo: The Master Chief Collection with the highest levels of engagement are who we are targeting,” reads the post.

The test will run through the weekend and end on Monday — although, 343 did not specify exact times.