"Halo: Reach" beta in the reach of "Halo" fans around the world

The wait is almost over for millions of “Halo” fans who’ve been eagerly anticipating the opportunity to sample the one of the biggest blockbuster games of 2010. Today, Kiwi “Halo” fans will be able to download the “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta via their “Halo 3: ODST” game discs* and help make entertainment history by participating in the biggest console beta ever.

Starting May 4 and concluding on May 20, the beta is a chance for fans around the world to experience a portion of the competitive multiplayer offering in “Halo: Reach”, and an opportunity to test and help perfect the ultimate multiplayer experience.

Building upon the successes of its predecessors, “Halo: Reach” breaks new ground with a host of new content and features, delivering a thrilling and feature-packed multiplayer experience. With new game types, weapons, armour abilities, players rewards, customisation options, social settings and more, the “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta introduces a wave of innovations that will take the award-winning “Halo” multiplayer experience on Xbox LIVE** to a new level.

Additionally, an introduction video to the “Halo: Reach” beta featuring actress Aisha Tyler, which debuted last week via the “Halo 3: ODST” game disc, is now widely available. In the light-hearted video, Tyler breaks down all the action-packed new game types in the beta and offers insider tips, all while wielding a variety of life-size “Halo” weaponry. It’s a must-watch for any “Halo” fan.

Stay tuned to www.bungie.net and Halo Waypoint on Xbox LIVE throughout the beta for regular updates and original content, including new videos, interviews, montages, highlight reels and screenshots, as well as updates on the latest playlists and community-organised multiplayer matches.

“Halo: Reach” will be available in Standard, Limited and Legendary editions when the game launches this year. Pricing will be announced closer to local availability.

Developed by renowned studio Bungie, “Halo: Reach” launches exclusively on Xbox 360 in the spring 2010.

Check the classification closer to launch date.

*“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
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