Bungie saddened by Halo 2 closure

An 'era is coming to an end' says the Halo developer.

Following on from the announcement last week that Microsoft is to shut down Xbox LIVE for the original Xbox and original Xbox games being played on the Xbox 360, Bungie has responded to what will mean an end to Halo 2 online multiplayer.

"We're all saddened at the realisation that an era is coming to an end but looking back, we're incredibly fortunate to have had such a great run and such strong support from our fans," said Bungie. "Halo 2 has been at or near the top of the Xbox LIVE charts for original games since it launched over five years ago. We're extremely thankful to everyone who has played, enjoyed and supported Halo 2 over Xbox LIVE. We've had some great fun together, including far too many humpday losses to even recount.

"That said, mark your calendars now - on April 14th let's all rally to go online for one last hoorah. One final farewell and one final opportunity for all of you to kick our asses at Halo 2."

Further details on the planned Halo 2 farewell will be released on Bungie.net in the coming weeks.