One "high-level Microsoft source" told G4TV that Microsoft would have ended support for older Xbox Live games if not for Halo 2's continuing popularity. According to the source, Microsoft is unable to patch in support for larger friends lists to the older titles, meaning that an expansion of the lists would require the complete shutdown of Halo 2 multiplayer service.

The company is still undecided on when to pull the plug, says the source. Microsoft has publicly expressed a desire to expand the list in recent months, but has not committed to a time frame.