‘Halo’ Exclusive: Cortana Saves Master Chief In This First Look Clip

As much fun as the Halo video games are, they never get into the embarrassing reality of Master Chief’s relationship with his AI assistant Cortana. That’s a problem that Paramount+’s Halo series is fixing this week. Decider has your first look at Episode 8, “Allegiance.” And if you’ve ever wanted to see a gruff Pablo Schreiber argue with himself like he’s the neurotic star of a Phil Lord and Chris Miller joint, this one’s for you.

The scene opens with Master Chief (Schreiber) walking alongside Makee (Charlie Murphy). Though he’s trying to appear confident and in control, it’s a struggle. Why? Because Cortana (Jen Taylor) keeps arguing with him. There are a couple of funny exchanges as John yells “No” and “Go away” to no one as Makee watches in confusion. But right before they enter Portal 8, John finally listens to his virtual pal.

“Halsey initiated the Zed protocol. You’re walking into a trap,” Cortana warns. See? This is why it’s good to listen to the voice inside your head.

Shortly after John and Makee stop, Dr. Halsey (Natascha McElhone) and her team lose their signals. Whatever nefarious plan they had to attack John and Makee, it’s not going to happen the way they want. As much fun as it is to watch a grown man talk to himself, this scene marks a major shift for Cortana. Fans of the games know that MC and Cortana go together like chocolate and peanut butter. But this is the first time in the show that Cortana has majorly defied her creator, Dr. Halsey, in order to help John. This best friendship is growing right before our eyes.

Developed by Kyle Killen and Steven Kane, Paramount+’s Halo uses the characters and stories of Microsoft’s bestselling games to create its own separate timeline. If you know Halo best for its rewarding gameplay mechanics, prepare for some cool action scenes and a heaping dose of emotional depth. Episode 8, “Allegiance”, premieres on Paramount+ Thursday, May 12.