Microsoft Swipes Away Region-Free Mod of Halo Online

Even though the recently announced Halo Online has been only released in Russia, the announcement wouldn't stop fans in other regions from trying to play the game. In fact, modders have attempted to import the free-to-play sci-fi shooter to other territories.

But Microsoft ain't havin' none of that.

Excuse the double negative and the poor grammar.

Anyway, the modders managed to obtain some of the files for Halo Online and reversed the client to enable region-free access. They named the mod "ElDorito," a take on the partnership between Halo and Doritos.

Microsoft slammed the ban-hammer, or issued a DMCA takedown notice to Github to remove "ElDorito":

We have received information that the domain listed above, which appears to be on servers under your control, is offering unlicensed copies of, or is engaged in other unauthorized activities relating to, copyrighted works published by Microsoft.

The above copyright work(s) [ElDorito] is being made available for copying, through downloading, at the above location without the authorization from the copyright owner or exclusive licensee.

It is unfortunate for the game to be removed, because Halo Online seems to be the perfect multiplayer game for Halo Fans: the graphical structure of Halo 4 combined with the almost-seamless multiplayer gameplay from Halo 3.

Oddly enough, any gameplay videos that have been posted for Halo Online have been removed.

Though the game is region locked at this current point, why in the world would Microsoft need to remove gameplay videos?

Unless there are plans to bring it worldwide.

Let's keep our fingers crossed!

Or at least sign a petition.