Halo’s Fiesta Playlist Highlights of how Infinite can improve

This week, Halo Infinite launched its first event, Tenrai, which will take place in select weeks over the next 6 months. As part of the event, developer 343 Industries activated a new multiplayer mode called Fiesta that gives a unique twist to Slayer mode. Instead of standardized initial weapons, each time the player respawns, they are equipped with a random amount of weapons and equipment.

While it’s not a real Slayer, the Fiesta mode is close enough to give players that Team Deathmatch experience. Since Halo Infinite surprise multiplayer debuts in beta, there is no way for the player to access the Slayer playlist. Before Tenrai was activated, the only options available were Quick Play, Big Team Battle, and Ranked, all of which provide a random selection of Killer and Objective-based modes (Capture, Hit retail, Stockpile, etc.).

Why Halo Infinite Needs a Slayer Playlist

Although there are so many Halo fans who like the combination of Slayer and Objective modes, there have been enough requests on the game’s social networks, forums and subreddit for Halo Infinite to provide a dedicated Slayer option. When Slayer appears in any of the three matchmaking playlists, it’s arguably the most engaging experience since it doesn’t completely rely on random teammates to succeed.

There’s nothing more frustrating than picking up an Oddball and watching teammates scatter in the wind instead of helping to protect the keeper. It doesn’t help either Halo Infinite Battle Pass progression system reward XP through challenges that encourage specific tasks rather than victory or game performance. A player can actually complete more challenges and earn more XP by never picking up the Oddball instead of having a teammate hold it the whole time and “win” the match.

However, it is possible to branch into Fiesta, where all that matters most, offers the chance to complete challenges and try to win the game mode at the same time. Since Tenrai debut event, my enjoyment of Halo Infinite was a lot higher, even if it would be nice to have a dedicated Slayer playlist. Trying out different weapons without having to compete for them is also a huge benefit, as it teaches the player their unique attributes. Because everyone races to pick up Cindershot in a regular playlist, players may not realize they can redirect Halo Infinite projectiles of electric weapons by moving their nets.

Hopefully when Halo Infinite officially releases on December 8, it will add more matchmaking playlists like Slayer. Fiesta showed how fun a dedicated, murder-focused playlist can be. Best of all, being able to play your own way allows Battle Pass progress to feel less constrained even if most players agree it still needs some rework.

Halo Infinite multiplayer is available in beta right now.

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