Halo: Spartan Strike announced

Microsoft and 343 Industries have announced Halo: Spartan Strike, a new top-down, twin-stick shooter in the same vein as last year’s Halo: Spartan Assault.

Spartan Strike takes place during the events of Halo 2, and features numerous gameplay improvements over Spartan Assault, like new vehicles and refined controls, IGN reports. The game will cost US$5.99, and will be available on Windows 8, Windows Tablet, and Windows Phone (with a single purchase unlocking all Windows platforms), as well as Steam.

343 Industries have also opted to remove microtransactions entirely, with currency earned through gameplay now the only way to purchase upgrades.

Earning select achievements in the Windows version of Spartan Strike will unlock player emblems and titles for Halo: The Master Chief Collection, while certain achievements in the latter will translate into in-game currency in Spartan Strike.

Halo: Spartan Strike is planned for release on December 12.