Halo 3 Goes Down in History

Microsoft's Halo 3 is on a roll. Together, retailers Amazon, Best Buy, Wal-Mart and GameStop have so far exceeded over 1 million pre-orders for the game. This statistic can now be etched in the book of video game world records, seeing as how Halo 3 is now the fastest selling pre-ordered video game in history.

The record is just what Microsoft needs right now. After Xbox 360 profits recently declined, Microsoft has high hopes that Halo 3 will revive the console's popularity. According to Microsoft's director of creative marketing, Chris Di Cesare, "Halo 3 will push video game entertainment into the forefront of mainstream culture. Teaming up with some of the world's strongest and most recognizable brands is trailblazing new paths and cementing video games as big entertainment on par with major event films, and is a testament to the excitement and anticipation intrinsically linked to Halo 3." (Source: earthtimes.org)

For those unfamiliar with Microsoft's Halo games, Halo 3 is the newest installment in a shooter series developed by Bungie Studios. The ongoing story of Master Chief, who must protect Earth from a xenophobic alien attack known as the Covenant, defines the series. Gamers take on the role of Master Chief himself. (Source: pcworld.com)

Three versions of Halo 3 will be released on September 25. The Legendary Edition includes a helmet-style case and bonus discs. The Standard Edition is a no-frills version of the game. A Limited Edition, boasting interviews and other extras, will hit store shelves as well. But why, do you ask, does one game need to have three variations of itself? Microsoft has clever marketing strategies. Since the Halo 3 launch revolves around the number 3, the company will try to capitalize on it and triple revenues. (Source: techshout.com)

So will the 1 million pre-order record be the only notable statistic for Halo 3? Maybe, but it will have a chance to beat another top score upon its release. World of Warcraft's The Burning Crusade expansion pack sold over 2.4 million copies in just 24 hours following its launch. Can Halo 3 break this record too?