The Master Chief is back

At 12:00am this morning, New Zealander gamers were the first in the world to experience the long awaited and highly acclaimed Halo 41.

Kicking off one of the year’s biggest entertainment launches, more than 650 Kiwi Halo fans descended on EB Games in Botany Town Centre for the largest ‘midnight madness’ event ever held in New Zealand.

The event - a partnership between EB Games, Gameplanet.co.nz and Xbox NZ – was the first Halo 4 launch celebration in the world and was supported by midnight openings of EB Games stores in Wellington and Christchurch.

The first copy worldwide was picked up by long-time Halo fan Jerina Grewar after a 12 hour queue.

Halo 4 is the latest iteration in the US$3 billion Halo franchise that has shaped entertainment history and sold a staggering 46 million games worldwide.

Hailed by international and local reviewers, Halo 4 has garnered universal acclaim as one of the top-rated video games of 2012.2

EB Games merchandising manager Grant Henry says the Auckland launch event is the largest midnight madness event held in New Zealand. “EB Games pulled out all the stops to celebrate Halo 4 and it’s great to see such a fantastic turnout.”

Steven Blackburn, Xbox NZ Lead, says the scale of the midnight launch is testament to the iconic status of the Halo franchise. “Halo is a gaming legend. The sheer numbers and unmistakable passion of the fans here at the midnight madness is the proof.”

James Cullinane, Gameplanet Editorial Director notes that “the scale of this midnight madness event demonstrates the huge passion and strength of the Kiwi gaming community.  We’re delighted to see so many gamers turn out for what is one of the biggest entertainment launches of the year.”

Developed by Microsoft Studios’ 343 Industries exclusively for the Xbox 360, Halo 4 delivers an epic campaign alongside a ground-breaking multiplayer.

Halo 4 is available now for $99.95 RRP3 (standard edition) and $129.95 RRP3 (limited edition).

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1 Halo 4 is rated M
2 As of Nov. 1, 2012. Source: http://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-360/halo-4/critic-reviews
3 (NZD) Recommended Retail Price, the actual price you pay will be determined by your retailer.