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Halo 3 for cheap, if you buy now
LionGames.com is offering a $20 discount off of all Halo 3 retail editions. The catch is you'll be paying the full discounted price upon purchasing. Lion Games does imply that this is a limited time offer, encouraging interested shoppers to 'buy now,' meaning you'll be forking over at least $40 for a product that's unlikely to ship for at least another nine months. The deal could certainly be a device for the newly launched retailer to build some quick capital; but if you don't mind contributing to that, then go ahead and purchase a copy (or two). We can't vouch for Lion Games' credibility, but the site, headquartered in Winsted, Connecticut, appears to be a legitimate operation -- we have little doubt that your pre-purchased copy of Halo 3 would be shipped soon after the official release. As an added bonus, Lion Games accepts trade-ins (you pay for shipping). So as an alternative, you could pile up enough games and send 'em in to cancel out the Halo 3 charge -- heck, you could even trade in enough product to get Lion Games to cut you the check. Let us know how the exchange goes. [Thanks, Karl]
Buy Halo 3 now, get 1600 MS points for $5
Are you a diehard Halo fanatic guaranteed to pick up the upcoming sequel on the first day of release? Here's a deal that might interest you. If you are willing to shell out the full price of Halo 3 now, Best Buy's online store will sell you 1600 MS points ($20 in US currency) for $4.99. It sounds like a pretty good deal, so long as you had nothing better to do with $60 or $70 for the rest of the year. Best Buy loves it, of course, since they're getting the money virtually free for now and can invest it in a way that more than makes up for the $15 loss they incur for the MS points.
Japan invited to Halo 3 Beta, will anyone RSVP?
Siliconera reports that copies of Riot Act (a.k.a. Crackdown) will contain download codes for Halo 3 Beta, extending Microsoft's promotion to Japanese gamers. Peter Moore recently reiterated to IGN that Microsoft is "not going to back down" in its aggressive campaign to popularize the Xbox brand in Japan. Including the download code inside Riot Act retail boxes is a friendly gesture, but it's not going to generate as many sales as the promotion will in North America or Europe, where Halo is a dominant franchise; and FPS in general, a leading genre. Still, Moore insists that the beta promotion isn't about boosting Crackdown's exposure, but rather, is simply an opportunity to pair potentially M-rated Halo 3 with an M-rated title. Guess that explains why Viva Piñata didn't include keys to the beta. Riot Act will be available on February 22 in Japan, two days after the game is released in North America. Halo 3 Beta download codes will also be included with the European version of Crackdown.
Halo 3 Beta invite guaranteed in every 'initial' copy of Crackdown [update 1]
While previous sources have stated otherwise, IGN claims to have received information from an unnamed Microsoft rep who has confirmed that every copy of Crackdown will include an invitation to Halo 3 Beta. If you're not interested in Crackdown, playing Halo 2 (you do own a copy of Halo 2, right?) for a few hours is still the best way -- and only other way -- to gain access to the beta. But it's good to know that a golden ticket, albeit an expensive one (if you plan to throw away the "chocolate bar"), will be sitting on the shelf at the local retailer, accessible at your leisure. Update: Microsoft sent along word that "every copy in the initial shipment" of Crackdown will have the download code for Halo 3 Beta. Each box will be specially marked. Microsoft did not specify how large the initial shipment would be. Don't cancel those pre-orders just yet... [Thanks, dork]
Bungie laments Halo 2's failures
Bungie Studios' Chris Butcher hates Halo 2. "I [frackin'] cannot play Halo 2 multiplayer," he laments in an interview with Edge, "I cannot do it." Butcher's sentiments are, surprisingly, shared by many in the Bungie studios, who feel that Halo 2 did not have that four- to six-week period to polish the game like they did for the first outing. There's even dismay over the oft-maligned cliffhanger ending that Bungie staffer Frank O'Conner parallels to the ending of Thelma & Louise. The obvious promise, if you hadn't already guessed, is that Halo 3 is going to outdo its previous titles, correct the mistakes of the past and save puppies.* This writer still prefers the original Halo over its sequel, so it'll be interesting to see if the third game can bring the game to its fresh-and-exciting roots. [Via Xboxic]
Halo 3 Beta notices this week, phase one registration closed
The first wave of Halo 3 Beta registrants will be notified of their acceptances this week, bringing phase one of Bungie's registration process to a close. A brief statement posted on Halo3.com reads: "If you have been selected to participate, congratulations and stay tuned for an email notification on the week of January 22-26, 2007." Anyone expecting? Two additional registration phases will follow, beginning with the "Rule of Three" Halo 2 playathon (Feb. 1). The final invitations to join the beta will be granted through the purchase of specially-marked retail boxes of Crackdown, which releases February 20. In related news, Microsoft has confirmed that the Crackdown demo, which will not offer access to Halo 3 Beta, will launch on Xbox Live tomorrow, January 23 (2:00 A.M. PST). [Via Xboxic; thanks, Jonah & Mr. Dude]
Bungie profiles Halo 3's MA5C Assault Rifle
In similar fashion to its recent Mongoose profile, Bungie turns the spotlight on Halo 3's MA5C Assault Rifle. Notable differences between the new weapon and Halo: Combat Evolved's MA5B include: Heavier barrel with a 1 in 7 twist Redesigned cowling to house the electronics suite that reduces weight and increases pointability of weapon Redesigned handguard which is sturdier and provides a more positive grip Simply put, the MA5C has greater range and is capable of dealing more damage than its predecessor. Bungie explains that the MA5C's performance is somewhere between the MA5B's and the BR55 Battle Rifle's. Like the BR55, a MA5C clip magazine holds only 32 rounds. As such, pulsing the trigger -- firing bullets in short bursts -- is the recommended strategy for dispersing targets.
We got learned! Halo 3 MA5C rifle info
As part of their in depth analysis of random Halo 3 technology, Bungie.net posted an analysis of an old weapon gone new, the MA5C Assault Rifle. Again, it is written in an army field report style with soldier opinions, technical specifications, and weapon combo strategies. One of our favorite soldier quotes referring to the assault rifle has to be "The (MA5C) is the workhorse for us ground-pounders. Just holding it makes you feel like God's own anti-son-of-a-blam!-machine". The assault rifle is similar in looks to it's older brother the MA5B (which appeared in the original Halo), but acts more like its Halo 2 cousin the BR55 Battle Rifle. Key differences that separate this assault rifle from the Halo version is that the clip holds much less rounds (32 to be exact), each bullet is more damaging, and it is much more accurate at longer distances. We also hear that it's wicked brutal when used as a melee weapon. The MA5C Assault Rifle will be the workhorse in Halo 3 and we're looking forward to using it to splatter grunt juice over every wall. [Thanks, un1qu3 n3wy0rk]
Leaked Halo 3 Alpha media roundup [update 1]
We've compiled (courtesy of Xbox 360 Fanboy) the leaked Halo 3 Alpha media for easy digestion. You won't get much more than a headache out of watching the videos, but the screenshot showing the Alpha download may give some indication as to the size of the forthcoming beta test (start deleting those old demos if you plan to join). Enjoy ... [Update: We've removed the leaked content at Bungie's request, sending the images and videos back into the perforated dam we call the internet. In lieu of ogling blurry screens and choppy video, stare at this $100 Legendary Edition helmet for a reminder of something else you'll never have.]
Halo 3 video and screens galore! [update 5]
Update 5: At Bungie's request, we have pulled the previously posted content. In its place is the handsome portrait of the Master Chief you see above. Keep on truckin' Bungie, we only pry because we love.
Bungie profiles Halo 3's Mongoose ATV
Bungie has drawn up a geeked-out dossier of Halo's M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle, commonly referred to as the "Mongoose." Included in the report are various battle strategies, which suggest the Mongoose will play a key role in taking control of certain maps' neutral points as players use the lightweight vehicles to race to strategically placed turrets and sniper positions. The M274 will also be an important asset in Capture the Flag multiplayer matches. Anyone eager for a test drive during the upcoming Halo 3 beta?
Halo 3 Mongoose details aplenty, new pics
Bungie has posted an article detailing the new Mongoose ATV set to make its debut in Halo 3. The article reads more like an army field report, which is kind of interesting (especially if you're a Halo-verse geek). Long story short, the Mongoose is fast and should feel right at home to fans of the Warthog. The article also mentions a few strategies that utilize a Mongoose. As you would expect, the fast (but unarmed) Mongoose is best for securing objectives (flags, bombs, etc.). For example, each base in Valhalla has two Mongooses (Mongeese?). Get your team on both Mongooses (two driving, and two riding "brokeback") and hightail it to the enemy base. Grab the flag and meet your Mongoose at the rendezvous point (this could be behind the base or at the Mancannon landing zone). Voila, captured flag. Hit the "read" link to check out the article and see some new images of the Mongoose. [Thanks, un1qu3 n3wy0rk}
Halo 3 documentary broken down into itty, bitty pieces
89 of 'em to be exact. That's really making the Et tu, Brute? documentary last a little while longer, and moves things up to a whole new level of fanaticism. It also proves that Halo fans are hardcore, and are probably going through Bungie's trash bins on a nightly basis. Let us know if you find anything good, but if you find Frankie's chewed gum ... spare us the dental records. Check out all of the photo-remnants from the chop-job on YouNEWB.com, and try to find new tidbits about the upcoming Halo 3. At the very least, you've got all new desktops for your computer, and at the worst, you've wasted 15 minutes of your life. Blame us or love us, it's your call. [Thanks, Billy Bob]
Halo 2 for Windows Vista: frag friends on PC and 360 (but not together) [update 1]
With Bill Gates' CES keynote winding down, we're left to sort through the gaming news that flooded out from Microsoft. While there was no mention of a new Xbox 360 console, or Gears of War for PC, there was a lot of hubbub about Games for Windows. Microsoft showed off UNO playing cross-platform on a PC using the Xbox Live service, allowing Xbox 360 users to get some game on with PC users. However, where Microsoft had been saying that Halo 2 wouldn't work with Live Anywhere, we now know that's wrong still true. The same press release touting the ultra-hot UNO news also goes on to say, "Microsoft also showed off Shadowrun (Microsoft Game Studios) and Halo 2 for Windows Vista (Microsoft Game Studios), the first of many titles that will enable gamers on Windows Vista to connect with their friends on Xbox 360 through the Live network." See update below - apparently you'll be able to interact in some way with Xbox Live users, but not via gameplay. Bing! Official confirmation that you'll be able to reach out across networks, systems, and enemy lines to bring the Halo 2 experience to a cubicle near you. Can't leave the office early to make a match? No sweat, fire up the PC and join your buds on Xbox Live. We not sure how nice the two systems will play together, but it's a promising announcement. Update: MS rep - "Bungie's FAQ is correct; there is no cross-platform gameplay between Vista and Xbox 360." So, you can just think about what almost was.
Play Halo 2, get invited to Halo 3 beta
Having failed miserably at obtaining entry into this Spring's Halo 3 beta program, you'll no doubt be pleased to learn of yet another opportunity to partake in first-person shooting and having your sexuality questioned by obnoxious brats. In fact, there are 13,333 such opportunities -- all you need to do is endure three hours of Halo 2 online. It's easy. Play Halo 2 online for three hours between Thursday, Feb. 1, 2007, 12:01 a.m. EST and Feb. 3, 2007, 11:59 p.m. EST. If you survive, rush to the official Halo 3 website and be part of the first 13,333 gamers to register in the "Rule of Three" program. If, however, you end up being number 13,334 ... well, you'll have to buy Crackdown. As previously reported, copies of Crackdown will contain invites to the Halo 3 beta program. Releasing on February 20, the game disc will act as a key to download the required data from Xbox Live Marketplace. Microsoft promises to release further information regarding the program for each region, though NTSC importers stuck in exotic countries may wish to consider the Crackdown route in the meantime. [Full press release after the break.]
Halo 3 tested in Iraq by our soldiers [update 1]
Over at the Gamespot's forums pictures and a brief video have surfaced of the Halo 3 beta being played by soliders in Iraq. There are a few offscreen pictures posted and a short video showing what looks to be either the Halo 3 loading screen or the title screen. Bungie and Microsoft set up a huge gaming station to showcase Halo 3 multiplayer for the soldiers ... how friggin' cool is that? If any soldier living overseas is reading this, please send us a tip if you know about this sneak peak at Halo 3 and/or your reactions if you got some hands on time. More pictures and video after the break ... salute! Update 1: Another video was found, updated video links after the break. [Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]
Halo & Halo 2 soundboard is unfreakin believable
You know those annoying soundboards that litter the internet? Yeah, those ones. We actually found a soundboard that is less than annoying, it's more along the lines of being cool and amazing. Check out the Halo and Halo 2 multiplayer soundboard over at Pufile. They are even conveniently color coded, blue is Halo 2 and red is Halo. Not only can you use the multiplayer sounds for crank calls, but as a bonus you'll feel violent doing it! And can someone back us up on this one, it's called "unfreakin believable" not "unfrickin believable" ... right guys? [Via Digg]
Halo 3: deconstructing 'Et Tu Brute'
"If you're not a helpless Halo nerd, turn back NOW!" So begins this nearly half-hour-long analysis of the 7-minute Halo 3 ViDoc released on Xbox Live Marketplace and across the internet last week. Secrets exposed? Spoilers unraveled? Not quite. Just loads and loads of speculation. It's sorta like watching a DVD with the director's commentary on -- minus the director.
Buy Crackdown, get Halo 3 beta invite
In the most recent issue of Gamepro magazine is an ad for Microsoft's Crackdown ... but in the lower right corner is a dirty little secret. The fine print clearly states that with purchase of Crackdown you'll receive a key code to get into the (wait for it) Halo 3 beta this Spring! Microsoft's marketing team must have thought, "what would be the best way to sell this damn game? Wait, I got it! We'll use our top franchise to spur game sales in a co-branded venture ... genius!". Though, we're still betting the bank on being randomly selected for the beta from Halo3.com. But if you have Crackdown on pre-order or were going to purchase it anyway, it looks like you'll be beta testing Halo 3 next year (crosses fingers hoping this isn't a photoshopped Gamepro ad). [Via Joystiq]
Bungie talks up the Brute video
Now that the latest Halo 3 "ViDoc" has been released and allowed to simmer for a few hours, Bungie has responded to some of the most common questions and concerns associated with it. Chief among these questions is of course the graphics. Already announced as being placeholder graphics, many still found the video to be lacking -- in some cases barely above Halo 2's visual quality. In response, Bungie says that essentially nothing in the video represents the actual look of Halo 3, save for a few very brief snippets. Furthermore, all footage in the video is several months old, as that is when they started creating the documentary.
