Microsoft introduced a couple of new partners in expanding the "Halo" non-gaming merchandize as more products ranging from speakers to slippers await fans of the popular Xbox video game.
In an official press release dated June 20, Microsoft revealed that the Halo brand will soon be carried by products from new licensees. Among the new licensees for Halo-branded products are AC Worldwide who developed 30 centimeter tall wireless speakers and the Bensons Trading Company who created novelty items based on Halo such as key rings, bags, balls, drink bottles, and even tattoos.
Additionally, Danilo Promotions has also been granted license to produce greeting cards, calendars, and gift wraps in Europe based on the shooting game. Other companies who earned licenses for Halo-branded products include H2W Sunstaches for sunglasses and novelty items; Industrias Darks for T-shirts, varsity jackets, and other apparel; Jade Toys for die-case figurines, Licensing Essentials for ladies and mens' underwear and apparel; PDP for customized faceplates; Rubber Road for holiday sweaters and travel mugs; ThinkGeek for weapon replicas and desktop needs; and Wicked Replica for lighting and masks.
The announcement came ahead of the Licensing Expo 2016 that runs from June 21 to June 23. All products would be in line with the theme of the military sci-fi first-person shooter game franchise that was developed by Microsoft subsidiary 343 Industries.
The entire franchise which began with 2001's "Halo: Combat Evolved" had developed into a global phenomenon that involved not only console games but also other merchandize like best-selling books, live-action series, action figures and toys, and apparels. According to Halo consumer products head John Friend, the success of the franchise and its related merchandize was all thanks to the fans who industriously shared ideas through online communities all over the world.
Because of this, "Halo" evolved from being a video game into a "pulp empire," per Popular Mechanics. IGN said that the Halo-themed merchandize is expected to be available in stores in a couple of months though there was no mention of a specific date yet.
