Halo 3: ODST dated

2 June 2009 0:24 GMT / By Stuart Miles

Microsoft has confirmed the latest instalment of the Halo franchise will be out in time for Christmas.

Halo 3: ODST will launch on 22 September and lets players experience the events leading up to Halo 3 through the eyes of a special forces ODST (Orbital Drop Shock Trooper) rather than the Master Chief.

ODST includes three new Halo 3 multiplayer maps and the complete, stand-alone Halo 3 multiplayer experience alongside a new campaign for enemies of the Covenant to get involved.

According to Microsoft, the game will also introduce Firefight, a cooperative multiplayer mode that pits up to four players against increasingly challenging waves of enemies.

As a special bonus, Halo 3: ODST also includes an invitation to the “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta on Xbox LIVE.

Fanboys looking for even more Halo can opt for the Halo 3: ODST "Collector’s Pack” which, says Microsoft, offers Halo fans a new and exclusive wireless controller and the game title in one package at a great price.