bungiestudios
Latest
Bungie talks Halo 2 maps
In Bungie's latest Weekly Update, Frankie went into greater detail with regards to Tombstone and Desolation. He complimented Certain Affinity's ability to bring Hang 'Em High and Derelict successfully to Halo 2's gameplay changes from that of Halo. There was obviously a lot more thought put into the changes than just changing the textures and taking away the roof, as the map also features fall damage, which we believe is to be exclusive to that map at this point. As for Desolation, it's been streamlined for competitive play and features grav lifts, ramps around the perimeter, as well as face lifts, moving from an abandoned spacecraft to an open forest.
Stuntmutt: beware of the pun
We've featured Stuntmutt's One One Se7en comics from time to time here on Xbox 360 Fanboy. For those that are unfamiliar, Stuntmutt is a webcomic centered on Halo and various things discussed in the Halo community. One of the biggest bits of news lately has been the revelation of the various editions of Halo 3, with most of the excitement and anger being directed towards the $130 Legendary edition. Aside from the price, the other quibble with the Legendary edition is that the premium SKU will not include the fiction and art book that comes with the Limited edition. That brings us to the subject of the most recent One One Se7en. The comic is about the exclusion of the art book from the Legendary packaging. Apparently the art book simply wouldn't fit inside the specially designed Legendary box, so Stuntmutt offers a solution. We won't give away the joke, but rest assured that it is bad. A groaner among groaners, the pun will damage your psyche. You have been warned. Hit the "read" link to check out the comic.[Via Bungie.net]
Halo 2 maps: Hang 'em High is back, not 360 exclusive
Halo 2 fans rejoice, as Microsoft has officially announced the new maps coming to Halo 2. There will be two maps available for download, Tombstone and Desolation. Tombstone is a remake of one of the most popular maps from the original Halo, Hang 'em High. Seen in the image above, Tombstone gives Hang 'em High's stark presentation an industrial twist. Desolation is a remake of Derelict, and presents a more symmetrical design. Check out Desolation after the break.
Halo 3 beta shenanigans, shenanigans we say!
Some of our readers may have seen the image above -- minus the "bogus," of course -- floating around the internet since yesterday. Okay, the creator of the image claims that it is an official email containing a download code for the Halo 3 beta. Let's look at why this is categorically untrue.
Halo 3 beta today? No, probably not.
Wow, a few hours without Live just makes people kuh-razy. When Live goes down for maintenance, it doesn't take long for the intertubes to start compiling theories as to what that maintenance is for (or indeed, if it is even maintenance at all). If the headline didn't already tip you off, some are speculating that the Live maintenance is being performed in anticipation of the much awaited Halo 3 beta. What's more, some are speculating that the beta will release today after the maintenance is finished. But what's wild speculation without a little evidence to back it up, right?
Halo + Monty Python = Teh Awesome
Halo is awesome. We know that. Monty Python is also awesome. Put them together and you get some of the awesomest awesome to ever awesome. Thus, we present to you this YouTube video found by VideoGamesBlogger. It's Monty Python's "How Not to Be Seen" as performed within Halo: Combat Evolved. Rather than spoil the fun, we'd suggest you click play and enjoy. For those unfamiliar with the source material, we have also included the original skit after the break. As an added bonus, we dug up another old favorite as well.
Bungie profiles Halo 3 warthog, secret code?
Bungie has posted a new vehicle profile from Halo 3, and today it is none other than our beloved (wort-wort) Warthog. While we don't learn much more about the vehicle than we already know, there is mention of different configurations of the 'Hog. One configuration mentioned ditches the gun in favor of four extra passenger seats. Also mentioned is that the mounted guns have internal batteries, enabling them to be operated even when detached from the Warthog. Granted, these configurations may not be in the game at all, but it's fun to speculate. Speaking of speculation, Bungie has included a new 360 degree screen shot, allowing users to take a virtual tour of the Warthog. What's interesting is that there appears to be a hidden code broken up throughout the screen shot. Rotating the 'Hog causes different pieces of the code to appear. It reads: "X.XX.713> ghost.713/non-auth/activity ongoing" What does it mean? Is this the beginning of ILoveBees redux? Does it have something to do with the Spartan-III project? We have no idea. From what we can tell, it's not a URL. That's where you come in. Go forth and decipher the code fanboys. [Thanks, un1qu3 n3wy0rk]
Halo 3 ran (so far away)
Bungie's Weekly Update this past Friday was all about atmosphere and flocks of seagulls. Frankie dished the dirt on how the environments in Halo 3 apply the real world physics behind what makes the sky blue, Rayleigh and Mie Scattering, which in turn gives distant objects that realistically faded tint. Following that, he continues his obsession with the water effects, going into extensive detail of a waterfall and the dynamic changes in the flow of H2O from the start to finish. Next up, he described the use of "flocking" behavior in air battles taking place in the far distance. That being said, when you're in aerial combat, the enemy AI will be in full force. Even so, apparently if you fire a rocket and get lucky, you can even hit some of the distant crafts. Also on the subject of "flocking", the artists have been putting some time into adding birds into the game, primarily seagulls and a form of cockatoo. They currently fly in packs of about 50 or so, and can be individually shot, if you want a closer look at the model. Well, that's enough blabbing on our part, if you want to hear more of what Frankie had to say about Halo 3's progress, click the "Read" link to go to the article.
The making of a legend: H3 Legendary edition
Bungie has posted an article explaining all the detailed planning that went into the production of the $130 Legendary edition of Halo 3. Planning for the Legendary edition has been underway since June of 2005, when discussions were first held concerning what sort of molding method to use to form the helmet. In the end Microsoft chose injection molding and gave the project to one of its largest keyboard manufacturers in China. That's right, your fancy schmancy helmet is coming from a keyboard factory. According to the article, once peak capacity is reached at the factory, a new helmet will be produced every 12 seconds! Most of the article centers on the planning of the Legendary edition, but there are several photos of the manufacturing process sprinkled throughout as well.Die-hard Halo fanatics may hit the "read" link to read the full article.
Bungie.net gets facelift
Bungie Studios revamped their presence inside the series of tubes that are the internet. While the previous incarnation of Bungie.net was revolutionary for its time, that was 3 years ago, and the latest takes it to the next level. To commemorate this transformation, the boys (and princess) of Bnet posted an interview with Lead Web Developer, Chris Gossett and Tom Gloconda (aka Achronos) about the revitalized look and feel of the site as well as features that have been added in preparation or Halo 3's beta and retail release this fall. The interview ended with some fun stats about Halo 2 for us to ponder, like how 4.7 million Gamertags have played in over 670 million games, although they didn't tell us how many of those were from the one month trial cards. What do you think of the new design and interface?[Via HBO]
Halo 3 priced downunder
While you might think that Americans and Canadians will be paying through the nose of the Legendary Edition of Halo 3, we got word of the Australian prices for the 3 SKUs. To get the cat-helmet, you'll need to drop AU$ 199.95, which is about $160 USD. The Limited Edition comes in at AU$ 119.95, or $96 USD. To just get the game, you'll be paying AU$ 99.95, which translates to $80 USD. While this doesn't make the North American pricing any better, it at least puts it in perspective for everyone. Are any of you Aussies willing to shell out 200 dollars of your currency for the Legendary Edition? [Via QJ.net]
Bungie comments on Legendary price point
While Bungie's Weekly Update had a slew of goodies for you to get excited about Halo 3, they also touched on the $30 increase in price for the Legendary Edition. They more or less apologized for the misleading initial price point, and assured us that the final product will be definitely worth every penny, especially to those who are die hard Halo fans. They even revealed that the Legendary Edition is limited enough to warrant Bungie staff pre-ordering their own copies, and that each one is individually numbered. So, with that coming from them, does it change your opinion on the thirty dollar discrepancy?
Halo 3 Legendary edition: officially $129.99
Shortly after uncovering the official box art for the Halo 3 Legendary and Limited editions, Microsoft has sent official details of both special edition packages. First, the big shocker: the Halo 3 Legendary edition will cost $129.99. For the hefty price tag, Halo fanboys will receive the oft mentioned limited edition case featuring the Spartan helmet and two bonus DVDs. The first disc contains behind the scenes footage of Halo 3 including a high definition "Making of Halo 3" documentary. The disc also has a special audio/visual calibration tool designed by the Bungie graphics and sound team. The calibration tool is designed to get the most out of players' home theater setups. The second disc -- exclusive to the Legendary edition -- includes cinematic material from the first two Halo titles, including developer commentary. Also on the disc is special content from the makers of Red Vs. Blue and This Spartan Life. Finally, the Legendary edition will include exclusive storyboard art featuring important moments in the Halo storyline. The Limited ediiton will cost $69.99 and comes in a spiffy metal case. It includes the same behind the scenes DVD as the Legendary edition and a Halo fiction and art book. The art book contains info on the various species in the Halo universe and reveals new info that expands on Halo's storyline. Just so Limited edition folks won't feel jilted -- and to give Legendary purchasers a reason to buy another edition -- the art book is exclusive to the Limited edition. Finally, the plain ol' regular edition contains nothin' but Halo 3 for the price of $59.99. So, now that all has been revealed, which edition will you be bagging come September Fall 2007?
More fuel for the September Halo 3 fire
Following 1UP's speculation that Microsoft could drop the Halo 3 hammer in September, IGN reports its findings on the matter. According to IGN a "big-name publisher and well-established development house" have both revealed that Halo 3 will drop in September to beat the holiday rush. The developer is apparently "close" with Bungie (like, are they dating or something?) and stated that shipping Halo 3 in September will allow Microsoft to beat its competition to the holiday punch. This will allow Microsoft to sell more systems before Sony and Nintendo release the hounds their big holiday titles. No offense to our beloved franchise, but it's probably a good idea for Halo 3 to ship before GTAIV, too. Of course, developing games is a tricky process, and it's certainly possible that Bungie may stretch development into November. We're Halo fanboys to be sure, but honestly, we can wait 'til November. Seriously, have you seen how many games are coming this year? There will be plenty to keep us busy until the Master Chief is good and ready. [Thanks, dpcough]
Shadowrun in June, PC Live features revealed
Tucked away inside Microsoft's latest Windows Live press release is the official release month for Shadowrun. EGM speculated that the game would see release in April, but the press release reveals that the official month is June. We would have preferred to rock some Shadowrun a little earlier, but at least this gives us something to play over the summer.The press release also reveals that the Windows Vista release of Halo 2 will be May 8th. In addition, the press release outlines what PC users can expect from Windows Live. Silver members can utilize Gamertags, voice chat, gamerscore, single player achievements, friends lists, and PC only multiplayer. Gold membership grants access to matchmaking, TrueSkill matchmaking, multiplayer achievements, and cross-platform gameplay. Full press release after the break.
Halo 3's aural experience
Mix Online has a very interesting and thorough piece on Halo 3's audio and the process Bungie has for bringing it into the game. Jay Weinland and Marty O'Donnell give their input on what equipment they use and how they make sure it sounds the way it does in game. The amount of attention to detail they're putting into this makes us really excited for how immersive Halo 3 will be come this fall. So, any audiophiles out there may want to take a look at this, but beware of drooling all over your keyboard.[Via HBO]
Finally, we get a Halo Wars update
Over on the official Halo Wars forums Thunder posted a special update for our little Halo gem. The Ensemble Studios development team had to reach one of their first development milestones by getting a preview build of Halo Wars ready for some visiting Microsoft execs. And to our surprise, they actually created a multiplayer build so the whole team (including those Microsoft execs) could spend the day blowing stuff up real good. Thunder also went on to say that they've "got a long way to go still, but it's very encouraging when a group like this can sit down and have fun beating the hell out of each other so far from any ship date". True, they do have many milestones to achieve before Halo Wars goes gold, but we're extremely exciting knowing that such an early build was so well received. Anyone's thirst for Halo Wars news been quenched or do you demand 20 gallons worth of screenshots? [Thanks, DjDATZ]
Halo comic book series announced
We have some good news for fans of the Halo Graphic Novel. Coming from the New York Comic Con, Marvel has announced (translated) the creation of the official Halo comic book series. The series will be penned by Brian Michael Bendis, who has worked on such comics as Daredevil, Ultimate Spider-Man, and The New Avengers. Art for the series will be created by Alex Maleev, who has worked with Bendis before on Daredevil. Details such as storyline and release date have not been announced.Anyone care to speculate on what the series will cover?[Thanks, Neural]
Hollywood Arts eBaying Halo 3 cameo
Got extra cash burning a hole in your pocket and feeling the need to give? The Hollywood Arts charity is auctioning off all kinds of video game related goods including one sweet Halo 3 cameo donated by Bungie. Other auctions include a tour of Bungie Studios, a Red vs Blue package, and a signed WoW package. But it looks like you'll have to empty out your college savings fund, because the Halo 3 cameo auction starts at $1,000 and is sure to go up within' the coming week. But remember, 100% of all the auction money will be donated to the Hollywood Arts making this one of those win win situations. Also, be sure to note that the winner of the Bungie Studios tour auction gets to bring a friend with and my schedule is open for the rest of the year. You know ... just saying.
Halo 3 beta primarily a server stress test
Speaking with Game Informer, Microsoft Games Managing Director, Shane Kim, and General Manager, Phil Spencer, take some time to discuss the Halo 3 beta. Speaking of the Halo 3 beta, Spencer notes that it will scale over time. In other words, the beta will start out small and grow as time passes. In part, this is why MS chose to put the beta in copies of Crackdown. It's presumable that those who made it into the first two phases of the beta will be playing before those with a Crackdown disc. The idea behind this is to implement new systems on Xbox Live to insure that everyone has a good experience playing when the retail product finally launches. By slowly adding more people to the beta, Microsoft can gauge the stress placed on Live.Spencer adds that before Halo 2 launched, many were worried about the amount of stress it would place on the Live network. According to Spencer, "For us that's what the beta is about." While this doesn't confirm suspicions that the Halo 3 beta is more a stress test than it is an actual beta, it certainly adds fuel to the fire. We've discussed our own theories in recent posts and the latest Fancast, but we'd like to know what you think.Will the Halo 3 beta be an actual beta, bugs and all? Or, will it be nothing more than a glorified stress test (admittedly a kickass stress test that's fun to play)? Does it even matter?[Via HBO]
