‘Halo 5: Forge’ to bring mapmaking to first-person shooter on Windows 10

Previously available within the Xbox One version of Halo 5, the updated Windows 10 version of Forge will allow players to make precise changes and additions to their created multiplayer maps thanks to a refined mouse and keyboard setup, and support for 4K resolutions.

Developer 343 Industries has announced the system requirements for PC users ready to jump in on the custom level creation action. Regardless of hardware, a Windows 10 machine that’s DirectX 12 compatible will be mandatory. Minimum specifications to get the game running require a Core i5 processor at 2.3GHz, with 8GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce 650Ti.

For gamers wanting a 1080p experience at 60 frames per second, the recommended specs include a desktop-grade 3.4GHz Core i5-3570K, along with 12GB of RAM, and a Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 with 4GB of VRAM. And for enthusiasts running a 4K setup, 343 Studios recommends a Core i7 -4770K or better, with 16GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce 980Ti with 6GB of VRAM.

Forge has long been a staple of the Halo series, allowing players to build out custom environments and test them during live multiplayer sessions. Forge offers numerous options for terrain formation and object placement, making it an ideal solution for amateur mapmakers.

Last year’s Halo 5: Guardians continued the series’ tradition with its own version of Forge that retained many familiar elements from previous Halo games while introducing new layout possibilities. Up until now, player creativity has been limited by Forge‘s controller-based input, which often makes it difficult to tweak in-game elements with precision.

The upcoming Windows 10 version of Forge aims to address many player requests, and has added a mouse and keyboard setup to make the level-creation process easier than ever before. Forge for Windows 10 also supports higher resolutions than stock Xbox One consoles, enhancing detail during the editing process.

Once players finish up a custom Forge level, they can launch test multiplayer matches that support up to 16 players, giving a quick overview of the map’s strengths and shortcomings. After finalizing their edits, mapmakers can then share their creations via a new cross-platform content browser that will debut alongside Forge‘s Windows 10 port.

Shared levels can then be downloaded by other Xbox Live users, who in turn can submit their own tweaks and customizations. Microsoft notes that all Forge material and content browser functionality will be available for both the Xbox One version of Halo 5: Guardians and in Halo 5: Forge for Windows 10 starting next month.

Halo 5: Forge will launch as a free download for Windows 10 PCs via the Windows Store on September 8.

Updated on 08-29-2016 by Imad Khan: Added system requirements for Halo 5: Forge on Windows 10 PCs.

Article original published on 08-24-2016