Microsoft is gifting Xbox Game Pass Ultimate users easier access to its Halo show on Paramount+ thanks to a new free trial opportunity.
Those signed up for the gaming service will find that starting today, they can take advantage of a 30-day trial for Paramount’s streaming platform. The offer can be found as one of Game Pass’ new Perks, as revealed in an Xbox Wire post.
The offer, as highlighted in the blogpost, coincides with the Halo show’s second season, which premieres with a two-episode drop tomorrow, February 8. While the month-long offer is in effect, users will be able to access the entire Paramount+ library, including the video game adaptation’s first season.
Given the timing, it's a clear attempt to get more fans of Halo the video game into Paramount+'s adaptation, and hopefully keep some more longtime subscribers in the process. It’s worth noting that those who begin the free trial today won’t catch the entirety of the second season before the 30-day period ends. The eight-episode season will have only aired six episodes by March 7, with the final two episodes set to release on March 14 and March 21.
“In season two, Master Chief John-117 (Pablo Schreiber) leads his team of elite Spartans against the alien threat known as the Covenant,” an official description for Season 2 says. “In the wake of a shocking event on a desolate planet, John cannot shake the feeling that his war is about to change and risks everything to prove what no one else will believe – that the Covenant is preparing to attack humanity’s greatest stronghold. With the galaxy on the brink, John embarks on a journey to find the key to humankind’s salvation, or its extinction, the Halo.”
Halo Season 1 was met with mixed feelings from fans and critics. Many longtime enjoyers of the classic Xbox franchise were bothered by certain elements, such as an often helmet-less Master Chief as well as a sex scene that takes place toward the end of the season.
We gave the first season a 7/10 in our review, saying, “Halo: The TV Series isn't a perfect adaptation of the games, but it ultimately succeeds in expanding the series' mythology and taking a more character-driven approach to Master Chief's adventures.”
Halo Season 2 will continue the story tomorrow. If you need to catch up, be sure to check out our Season 1 recap and the show’s newest trailer.
Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor with IGN. He started writing in the industry in 2017 and is best known for his work at outlets such as The Pitch, The Escapist, OnlySP, and Gameranx.
Be sure to give him a follow on Twitter @MikeCripe.
