Halo 3 Launch Details

Xbox 360

To celebrate the release of Halo 3 for the Xbox 360 later this month, Microsoft is planning a number of launch events.

While most of these events are specific to the US, it's quite likely we will also receive the free Xbox Live Gold days September 25th - September 27th. So if you're not a XBL Gold Member, 2 free days of online play should be coming soon. Look out for possible Australian and other regional launch events soon.

From xbox.com

Regional Launch Events: In New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and Seattle, look for huge launch events. You could score some free swag, get a chance to play Halo 3 with local celebrities in on-site Game with Fame sessions, and be there for the countdown to launch!

Midnight Madness: At 12:01 A.M. on September 25, over 10,000 stores will be open to sell Halo 3 in the biggest entertainment launch in history.

Halo 3 Play & Win Sweepstakes: Register your gamertag, then play Halo 3 between September 28 and September 30 to enter the sweepstakes. We've got some great Halo prizes, including Halo accessory packs, Halo Xbox 360™ consoles, Halo 3 Zune players, Microsoft Points, and Halo Graphic Art Books.

Free Xbox LIVE Gold from Best Buy: From September 25-27, Best Buy brings Xbox LIVE® Gold to everyone free, so you can experience the online multiplayer of Halo 3! Fight through the campaign with your friends cooperatively online, save and share your best moments from the game, or try other online activities free during the Free Gold days.

Best Buy Play & Win: You could win a Pontiac G6 GXP Street Edition or a Samsung home theater system in this special car giveaway sponsored by Best Buy. Simply register your gamertag, play Halo 3 between September 25-27 and you're entered into the sweepstakes. More than a hundred lucky winners will each score 8000 Microsoft Points from Best Buy.

NASCAR: All eyes will be on Target Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates as David Stremme drives the Number 40 Target/Halo 3 inspired race car at the NASCAR Dover 400 on September 23. Select NASCAR drivers will even have a chance to test drive Halo 3 prior to the race during a private event.

Game with Fame: We've got some celebrities lines up to play against Halo 3 gamers. The Dates, times, and celebrities are still being finalized, so stay tuned for more details.

Game with Bungie: Here's your chance to play against members of Bungie Studios, the makers of the blockbuster game.

New Marketplace Content: Look for exclusive content on Xbox LIVE for Halo 3 throughout the Unite to Fight week.