Halo 4: First in-Game Screens Leaked

Ahead of today's announcement from Microsoft, Gamerlive.tv have leaked two screenshots of the upcoming newest addition to the Halo franchise. The images, which were shot by Paul Featherstone, assistant director of photography at 343 Industries are not exactly spoiler-heavy, given that their subject - Master Chief - is one of the single most recognisable characters from the history of the console, but they are rather nice to look at... Somewhat atypically, the second image isn't purple... Halo 4 principal engine programmer Corrinne Yu used her Twitter account to stir up the waters a little, claiming that the game's visuals are a wonder to behold:

It's the best looking game on Xbox and any other consoles we ever made and we're all from AAA studios. So proud of team.

Time will tell whether Halo 4 can reannounce the franchise as an ongoing concern, or whether it will confirm what has been suspected among some gamer groups for some time: that Halo simply doesn't matter as much as it used to. Halo 4 is due later this year, and an official announcement for the game is expected today.