Bots were used extensively in previews prior to the game’s official release. After the first preview, we discussed our thinking behind bot development and how we intended to respond to initial player feedback.

Halo Infinite Multiplayer Bots

Multiplayer bots on Halo Infinite were developed to simulate player behavior at different skill levels, from the onboarding novice to the seasoned veteran. Bots could use all weapons and equipment available to players, play Arena objective game modes, and coordinate as a team at higher levels of difficulty.

Work

  • Led design of multiplayer bots

  • Worked with engineering to develop new AI behaviors and decision-making processes to simulate human movement, aiming, and gameplay strategies.

  • Helped integrate bot functionality across multiplayer experiences.

Feature Reviews

GDC 2022

Deconstructing the Combat Dance: Designing Multiplayer Bots for Halo Infinite

I presented on the multiplayer bot design process at the Game Developers Conference in March 2022. My talk focused on how we identified key player behaviors that led to success in Halo, and how we approached recreating those behaviors at different levels of bot difficulty. The talk is available to view for members of the GDC Vault.

Player walkthrough of the multiplayer tutorial. (Gameplay begins after ~2:30).

Halo Infinite Multiplayer Tutorial

The multiplayer tutorial in Halo Infinite is a linear, single-player tutorial designed to teach core multiplayer concepts while simultaneously welcoming players to the Halo universe. Players are first introduced to the player sandbox, working through basic movement, complex traversal, weapons, and equipment. Once taught, those concepts are reinforced with a short Slayer match against multiplayer bots.

Work

  • Designed the player experience from initial level blockouts to ship.

  • Worked with art to ensure the level environments met gameplay needs and helped develop solutions to incorporate existing multiplayer environments.

  • Collaborated with narrative team on the intended player experience.

  • Scripted mission events and dialogue.

  • Coordinated with multiplayer and sandbox designers to ensure that important game concepts were appropriately represented in the onboarding experience.