Halo 5: Guardians players are buying into the game’s new microtransaction system. Microsoft announced today that in-game sales from Halo 5 Req Packs have now generated at least $700,000. That sum will be added to the Halo World Championship prize pool, which currently sits at $1.7 million.
“Since the the first LAN was played in 2001, fans have created epic moments and stories in Halo multiplayer—from hometown heroes to the world’s top players,” said Microsoft. “Over the years, dynasties have ruled and fallen, new champions have emerged, and the pages of the Halo esports history books have been written. The upcoming Halo World Championship is the biggest Halo tournament to date, and will celebrate the rich and storied history of Halo esports—the moments, stories, and players—while signifying the beginning of a new chapter of Halo 5 esports, an ongoing, long-term esports investment for 343 Industries and Xbox.”
Only a portion of total Req sales have gone to the prize pool, indicating that Microsoft has actually generated quite a bit more total revenue from the microtransactions.
The REQ System (short for “requisition”) lets players earn points for playing multiplayer in Halo 5. REQ Points are used to purchase REQ Packs, which are like bundles of trading cards. Each “card” gives players an item, like vehicles, armor, and weapons. There are a lot of ways to get REQ Packs. Players can spend time in multiplayer, complete commendations, spend REQ Points (everyone will start with 7,500 and earn more all the time), or purchase select licensed Halo products and earn promotional REQ Packs.
