ENVY Returns to Halo Esports After Four-Year Hiatus, Reveals New Roster for HCS Dallas

ENVY, one of North America’s most storied esports organizations, is officially back in the Halo scene after a four-year break. The team will make its return debut at the upcoming Halo Championship Series (HCS) event in Dallas, Texas, with a brand-new roster of competitive talent.

Announced via X (formerly Twitter) on May 13, 2025, ENVY’s new Halo lineup features:

• Jason ‘Descendant’ Morales
• Spencer ‘Piggy’ Thomas
• Jackson ‘Yakzn’ Johnson
• Ethan ‘Precision’ Friese

Among them, Precision brings notable experience and success from the Gears of War competitive scene, where he previously secured four major championship titles before transitioning to Halo in 2021.

A Legacy Reignited

ENVY has deep roots in Halo esports. The organization was a founding team in the inaugural Halo Championship Series (HCS) back in 2016, winning the Pro League Fall Finals that same year and earning second place at the 2017 Halo World Championship. Their return marks a significant moment for long-time fans of the franchise and competitive Halo.

Expansion and Merger Momentum

Halo is just one of several titles ENVY has re-entered since founder Mike ‘Hastr0’ Rufail re-acquired the brand from OpTic Gaming in January 2025. Since then, ENVY has expanded its footprint into Apex Legends, VALORANT, Marvel Rivals, and Super Smash Bros., signaling a full-force comeback into the esports spotlight.

In March 2025, ENVY also announced a merger with Native Gaming, another organization with previous Halo experience. Native Gaming had fielded a competitive Halo roster from 2022 until October 2024, and their operational experience adds strategic depth to ENVY’s relaunch.

The Rebuild of a Powerhouse

The first half of 2025 has been a rebuilding phase for ENVY as it charts a new path forward in the evolving esports landscape. Originally founded in 2007, ENVY built a legendary reputation through its success in Call of Duty and Counter-Strike, becoming one of the most recognizable brands in North American esports.

With Halo checked off the list, a potential return to Counter-Strike could be on the horizon. In April, Rufail teased that ENVY is actively exploring opportunities to re-enter Valve’s iconic FPS, should the right roster become available.

ENVY’s re-entry into Halo is more than just a comeback — it’s a statement. As they gear up for their first event in Dallas, all eyes will be on whether this new squad can live up to the organization’s storied legacy.