Largest beta of its kind for one of the biggest blockbuster games of 2010

Set your countdown clocks because the “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta, poised to be one of the biggest test events in entertainment history, kicks off in just four days.

The “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta is set to be one of the definitive Xbox LIVE events of the year and will run from May 4 through to May 20. The beta, accessible via the “Halo 3: ODST” game disc*, will offer millions of “Halo” fans a unique opportunity to test and help refine one of the biggest blockbuster games of 2010.

As this is a beta, Bungie will be turning on different modes at different times to optimise testing. The beta kicks off with three playlists featuring the all-new, highly-competitive Arena mode (4v4 ranked Team Slayer games) as well as “Free-for-All” and “Grab Bag” playlists, which include a mix of classic and brand new game types. Beginning May 8, the new large-scale Spartan vs. Elite “Invasion” playlist will be added to the beta. Finally, beginning May 15, the “Generator Defence” game type will become available.

Everyone who logs in and plays at least one full game of any type in the “Halo: Reach” beta* will receive a free** “Halo: Reach” Avatar hoodie via the Halo Waypoint portal on Xbox LIVE. To redeem the hoodie, players must access Halo Waypoint and browse their “Halo” career statistics after completing a match. Additionally, as a way to give even more “Halo” fans a chance to join the fun, online multiplayer for the “Halo: Reach” beta, “Halo 3: ODST” and “Halo 3” will be free** for all Xbox LIVE members during the “Halo Multiplayer Unlock Weekend,” which runs from May 15 at 4am NZT through May 18 at 4am NZT.

Among the millions of “Halo” fans eagerly anticipating the beta is American actress Aisha Tyler and available tomorrow is a video introduction to the beta starring the actress, viewable exclusively through the “Halo 3: ODST” game disc. Tyler walks through all of the exciting new game modes and offers her own tips and insider hints for each of the maps while showing off some life-size “Halo” weaponry. It’s a fun introduction to the beta that no fan should miss.

Continue the experience online at the “Halo: Reach” experience site, www.welcometonobleteam.com. The destination is designed to capture the imagination of “Halo” fans and introduce newcomers to the fiction of “Halo: Reach” through videos, interactive experiences and additional content. For more information throughout the beta that is accessible from your Xbox 360, be sure to visit Halo Waypoint for exciting “Halo: Reach” coverage and features. Don’t miss out on the newest videos, interviews, montages, and screenshots as Halo Waypoint showcases “Halo: Reach” every step of the way.

Representing the impressive multiplayer elements that have become the hallmark of the “Halo” series and fused with a host of new content and features, “Halo: Reach” offers a robust and action-packed multiplayer experience and promises to set a new standard for competitive gameplay, customisation and community integration.

Developed by acclaimed studio Bungie, “Halo: Reach” launches in the spring of 2010, exclusively on Xbox 360. “Halo: Reach” is currently available for pre-order from participating retailers in Standard, Limited and Legendary editions.

Please check the classification closer to release.

*“Halo: Reach” beta will require a hard drive, “Halo 3: ODST” campaign disc, Xbox LIVE Gold Membership and internet connection for online multiplayer.
**In New Zealand, only adult accounts (18+) can download or stream content over Xbox LIVE marketplace. Download charges may apply as set by your ISP.