Halo Wars 2 is getting a physical release on Windows 10

Microsoft has announced that its upcoming sci-fi RTS, Halo Wars 2, will be seeing a physical release on Windows 10. This will be first of its Windows Store titles to be seeing a disc-based release, without forsaking any cross-platform features.

Halo Wars 2

Halo Wars 2 (Image credit: 343 Industries)

Both the game's standard version and higher-value 'Ultimate Edition' will be offered in a physical form, with content spread across four installation discs. This version of the game still be locked to Windows 10 and will require a one-time use code upon installation. The game will also support Xbox Play Anywhere, entitling owners to a free digital copy for Xbox One, alongside cross-platform saves.

From the transition to a digital to physical release, little has ultimately changed in terms of value. Both editions of the game come with the same bonus content, only wrapped up in stylish new packaging. Ultimate Edition purchases will still include all additional bonus items, including the Season Pass and Halo Wars Definitive Edition.

Although physical releases are nothing new to PC games, Halo Wars 2 will be the first Windows 10 UWP game to be distributed over a disc. This sets some interesting precedents for the future, with UWP still being an up-and-coming platform for game distribution.

Will you be picking up Halo Wars 2 as a physical or digital release? Are you swayed by support for Xbox Play Anywhere? Make sure to let us know in the comments!

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Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.