Microsoft Reveals 899 as the price tag for its limited‑edition Xbox Series X 25th Anniversary Collection, a bundle that celebrates two and a half decades of gaming.
Microsoft’s newest hardware celebration lands with a translucent OG green console, a 1TB SSD, and a fresh take on the franchise that started it all – Halo: Campaign Evolved. The package, priced at $899.99, ships on November 13th and promises to reshape how veteran and new players experience the iconic series.
From the moment the announcement hit the headlines, the gaming community has been buzzing. Pre‑orders opened today, and the limited‑edition hardware is already selling out on Microsoft’s store and partner retailers. For many, the price point feels steep, but the bundle’s content justifies the premium.
What’s Inside the 25th Anniversary Collection?
The collection is more than a console; it’s a curated museum of Xbox history. Inside the box you’ll find:
- Xbox Series X25 Limited‑Edition Console – a translucent green chassis that mirrors the original Xbox’s signature hue.
- 1TB Custom SSD – optimized for faster load times and smooth performance across all titles.
- Halo: Campaign Evolved – a faithful yet modern remake of the original Halo: Combat Evolved, now available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and even PlayStation 5.
- Xbox Wireless Controller – a special‑edition controller featuring anniversary branding and a refined D‑pad.
- Game Pass Access – a six‑month subscription that grants instant access to the entire Xbox Game Pass library.
All of this arrives in a premium box designed to look like a collector’s artifact. The inclusion of Halo: Campaign Evolved is the headline grabber, as the game re‑imagines the classic campaign with new missions, expanded lore, and updated graphics.
How Halo: Campaign Evolved Changes the Game
Released on July 28, 2026, Halo: Campaign Evolved is described as a “faithful yet modern remake.” The core storyline remains intact, but developers added fresh missions that explore untold moments from Master Chief’s early days. Players can now experience revamped environments, ray‑traced lighting, and a re‑orchestrated soundtrack that blends the original’s iconic themes with contemporary orchestration.
Beyond visual upgrades, the remake introduces quality‑of‑life improvements: streamlined checkpoint systems, optional difficulty scaling, and enhanced controller ergonomics. These changes make the classic campaign more approachable for newcomers while preserving the challenge that long‑time fans cherish.
Because the game is part of the Game Pass library, anyone with an active subscription can jump straight into the action without an extra purchase. This accessibility aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to keep the Halo franchise front‑and‑center across all platforms.
Player Impact: Why This Matters
For veteran Halo fans, the collection offers a nostalgic trip back to the series’ roots, now rendered in 4K and 60fps. The new missions also provide fresh lore, sparking renewed discussion across fan forums and social media. Meanwhile, newcomers gain a low‑barrier entry point into a franchise that has defined first‑person shooters for decades.
The $899 price tag may raise eyebrows, but the bundle’s value proposition extends beyond hardware. The inclusion of a six‑month Game Pass subscription effectively reduces the cost of dozens of games, while the limited‑edition console becomes a tangible piece of Xbox history.
From a market perspective, Microsoft’s move signals confidence in premium, collector‑focused releases. By pairing a high‑end console with exclusive content, the company aims to capture both the nostalgia market and the performance‑driven segment of gamers who demand top‑tier specs.
Key Takeaways
- Price & Release: $899.99, available November 13th, pre‑orders start today.
- Hardware: Translucent green Xbox Series X25 with 1TB SSD.
- Software: Halo: Campaign Evolved, a modern remake with new missions.
- Additional Perks: Xbox Wireless Controller, six‑month Game Pass.
- Availability: Limited stock; sell‑outs expected within weeks.
FAQ
When can I pre‑order the 25th Anniversary Collection?
Pre‑orders open today, with shipments scheduled for the November 13th launch date. Microsoft recommends ordering early, as the limited‑edition units are expected to sell out quickly.
Is Halo: Campaign Evolved exclusive to Xbox?
No. While the game ships free with the Xbox 25th Anniversary Collection, it is also available on PC and PlayStation 5 as a standalone title. However, Xbox owners receive the game at no additional cost.
Do I need a Game Pass subscription to play Halo: Campaign Evolved?
The game is included with the bundle regardless of Game Pass status, but a six‑month Game Pass subscription is also part of the package, giving you access to the entire Game Pass library at launch.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft Reveals 899 for a reason: it isn’t just a price tag, it’s an invitation to relive the past while embracing the future. The 25th Anniversary Collection blends iconic hardware design with a refreshed Halo experience, delivering both nostalgia and modern gameplay. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, this bundle offers a compelling reason to celebrate Xbox’s legacy and look ahead to what’s next.
