It’s not a movie, yet, but Microsoft is planning to launch a new web series based on its blockbuster Halo video-game series, with real people playing the characters.

A company representative confirms that Microsoft will be producing the live-action series, called “Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn,” in conjunction with the launch of the Halo 4 video game later this year.

Variety first reported the news earlier this week.

Microsoft has tried for years, without success, to bring a Halo movie to the big screen as a feature film.

Depending on the reception, the web series could help build new momentum in Hollywood for a movie, so long as the company doesn’t blow it again with weird moves like having Master Chief wait in the lobby while studio execs review the script.

Here’s how Variety describes the plans for the series …

“Forward Unto Dawn” will play out over five weekly installments, around 15 minutes each, telling an original story about the game’s Master Chief and how he inspired a young UNSC cadet who will eventually become a leader aboard the UNSC Infinity spacecraft. Introduction of the new character will tie in with the plot of “Halo 4,” while providing a flashback to the beginning of the “Halo” franchise’s war between the humans and the evil Covenant.

Microsoft isn’t giving any further details, but it did share the teaser image shown here. Click on the image for the high-res version. If any Halo fans spot anything notable in the armor, let me know.

The Halo 4 video game is due out Nov. 6. It’s the first installment from Microsoft’s 343 Industries, which took over the franchise from the original creators, Bungie Studios.

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