Halo 3 midnight mania to sweep US

In part fueled by Microsoft's $10 million-induced publicity inferno, the hoopla surrounding the release of Bungie's anticipated shooter Halo 3 is quickly rivaling that of a hardware launch. Microsoft today further fanned the flames today, revealing plans for several midnight events in the UK and the United States on All Halo's Eve, September 24.

Early-morning Halo 3 launch events will encompass more than 10,000 stores across the country, with major events planned in the four corners of the continental US. In New York City, the Best Buy on the corner of Fifth Ave. and 44th St. will offer Halo fans a chance to log some prelaunch playtime against celebrities, professional athletes, and Bungie staff members. Similar experiences will be on offer at the GameStop at 1000 Universal Studios Blvd. in Los Angeles, Bungie's hometown of Seattle at the Best Buy at 457 120th Ave., and the Circuit City at 8575 Northwest 13th Terrace in Miami, Florida.

Swag slated to be given away at the regional events includes Halo Action Clix from WizKids, collectible trading cards from Topps, Halo Ghosts of Onyx by Eric Nylund from Tor Books, Frag Fest T-shirts from Mighty Fine, accessories and hats from Changes, messenger bags from Enmon Accessories, console sling bag and hardware organizers from BD&A, Halo Graphic Novels published by Marvel, 2008 Halo calendars from Trends International, Halo Uprising Comic (issue one) from Marvel, Halo soundtracks from Sumthing Else Music, weapon replicas from Master Replicas, Zune Halo 3 edition, and limited-edition figurines from the diorama created for the Halo 3 ad campaign.

Rated M for Mature, the Xbox 360 exclusive is available in three versions: the $59.99 regular edition, the $69.99 limited edition, and the $129.99 legendary edition, which comes with a miniature helmet of the game's hero, the Master Chief. A limited-edition Spartan green and gold-colored Xbox 360 Pro bundle--which includes a matching wireless controller, a 20GB hard drive, a headset, a play-and-charge kit, an exclusive Halo 3 theme and gamer pics, as well as support for HDMI output--went on sale September 16 for $399.

GameSpot's Halo 3 Launch Center has more information on the game, the review for which will go live on Sunday, September 23.