Xbox Press

Cars, ammo, jetpacks and more. These are the things that make you go boom! “Crackdown 2” makes an explosive return with the title’s first Game Add-on, “Toy Box,” available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace starting today. With two content packs that will satisfy every thrill seeker, Microsoft Game Studios and Ruffian Games are rewarding all “Crackdown 2” owners with all-new gameplay experiences at no cost, while fans looking for more action can purchase the premium content for 560 Microsoft Points.

The “Toy Box” Game Add-on kicks the high-flying “Crackdown 2” action into high gear, offering all “Crackdown 2” owning fans the new Vehicle Tag mode, a Level 6 ability reward and the Keys to the City at no cost. For the dedicated action fanatics, “Toy Box” also comes with bonus content that can be purchased for 560 Microsoft Points, including 10 new Achievements, Avatar Awards and new vehicles and gadgets. Catch a sneak peek of the “Toy Box” action in the new gameplay trailer on the Xbox YouTube channel.

“Toy Box” features explosive new experiences, gadgets and tools for all “Crackdown 2” owners at no cost:

·         Keys to the City: Made notorious in the first “Crackdown” expansion as the ultimate cheat mode, Keys to the City returns to “Crackdown 2” and puts an even bigger set of tools at your disposal, including God Mode, Infinite Ammo, Fly Cam, spawning of weapons, gadgets and more, the ability to freeze the time of day, and pushing all skills to the maximum to become faster, stronger and more lethal.

·         Level 6 Reward: Fans who reach Level 6 on all Agent skills will be rewarded with the new Thruster Ability. Thruster Ability is like having jetpacks for your boots, giving Agents built-in vertical propulsion to activate flying with the Wingsuit no matter where you are in the game.

·         Vehicle Tag*: Once you’re done taking down the Freaks and the Cell, join your friends for a thrilling new multiplayer mode where up to eight Agents can compete in these six arenas: Speed is the Quay, Industrial Action, Maim Street, Skid Row, Beachhead and The Sum of Human Knowledge.

Fans can also purchase additional in-game content to extend their gaming experience for 560 Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE Marketplace:

·         Two New Vehicles*: Access two new vehicles: the wall climbing aquatic mini-tank called the Agency ATV, and the Squad Chopper, which allows four players to jump in and man their own weapon, including the proximity mine launcher, precision rocket launcher, twin machine guns and nose machine gun.

·         Five New Toys*: Whether you’re soaring to greater heights or orchestrating a massive explosion, get creative with the following new toys: The Mass Driver (turreted gravity bending weapon), Portable Launch Pads (allows Agents to create their own launch pad jumps), Stickler Grenade (bouncing grenade that sets off smaller explosive charges as it bounces), Thrusters (allow vertical thrust), and Mags on Characters (allow Mag Grenades to be attached to characters).

·         Two Avatar Awards: Deck your Agent in the latest gear. “Toy Box” offers two Avatar Awards to customize your Xbox LIVE Avatar with the Xbox Green Suit (must complete the Rocketeer Achievement) and Green Helmet.

·         10 New Achievements: Pacific City never sleeps and neither do the exploits. Industrious Agents will be rewarded with 10 new Achievements and 250 Gamerscore:

1)      Beyond the Infinite

2)      Run Get to the Chopper

3)      Rocketeer

4)      Tac Loc Takedown

5)      Burnt Offerings

6)      Mile High Club

7)      Never Give It Up

8)      One Careful Driver

9)      Wing a Ding Ding

10)   Hung Out To Dry

·         Eight Agent Suit Colors: Pick up eight new shades of in-game armor for your Agent:

1)      Peacekeeper

2)      Terror Firma

3)      Agent Orange

4)      May Contain Nuts

5)      Minti-Sting

6)      Mega Agent

7)      Haz Mat

8)      Dem Apples

*Players who have not purchased the premium “Toy Box” content will only have access to the new vehicles and gadgets during multiplayer games if a friend who has purchased the premium content joins. Downloading “Toy Box” is not required to continue engaging in other multiplayer gameplay modes with those who have downloaded it.

“Crackdown 2” builds exponentially upon the sizzling, action-packed gameplay of its predecessor, including the all new 4-player co-op and 16-player multiplayer modes. With formidable new enemies called the Cell and the Freaks standing in the way of the Agency’s goal to restore order, players return as genetically enhanced Agents in “Crackdown 2” to once again bring peace to Pacific City – by any means necessary. Sign in to your Xbox LIVE account to access the public demo today. Visit xbox.com/crackdown2 for more information and www.chucksducks2.com to access the Facebook experience.

# # #

“Crackdown 2” is developed by Ruffian Games, rated “M” for Mature by the ESRB and is available globally. To download the “Toy Box” trailer and other assets, visit: http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Crackdown%202/. (Please do not publish this URL.) REMINDER: All video content rated “M” by the ESRB must be under a proper age gate.

This prologue includes unique content not available in the retail release of “Dead Rising® 2” and will introduce new protagonist Chuck Greene as he and his daughter find themselves caught in a desert town overrun with zombies. Get a taste of the new gameplay you will experience in “Dead Rising® 2” as you create combo weapons, rescue survivors and take on a ruthless Psychos before making your escape.  In addition, players can carry over status and items earned to the full game when “Dead Rising®2” releases in North America on Xbox 360 on September 28 and Games for Windows in early October.

“Halo®: Reach” (Microsoft Game Studios), the most highly-anticipated game of 2010, is almost here! To help prepare Spartans everywhere for the epic fight ahead, Xbox LIVE will offer an exciting series of “Halo” themed content leading up to the game’s September 14 launch, including new releases of “Halo” Avatar gear, exclusive themes and thrilling videos.

Are you ready to join Noble Team and serve as humanity's critical line of defense? Once you pick up a copy of the game on Launch Day, join the fight online during “Invasion Week” where Xbox LIVE will host a dizzying array of “Halo” activities from September 14 through September 20, including new gear, exciting content, spectacular prizes and a chance to play with the creators of the game. And, as a special bonus, all fans that jump online will receive the “Halo: Reach” “Invasion Week” theme for FREE.

The sun may be setting on this year’s Summer of Arcade, but you still have time to reap some rewards. Purchase all five featured titles before August 31, 2010 11:59pm EST and receive 1200 Microsoft Points for free! Or, purchase at least three Summer of Arcade games and receive 400 Microsoft Points! Gear up for a fun fall too, full of thrilling downloadable games with The Game Feast, brought straight to your Xbox 360 by Microsoft Game Studios. Starting September 29 through October 20 enjoy a savory serving of fresh, innovative games from independent studios on Xbox LIVE Arcade. Featured titles include:

• September 29: “Hydrophobia” (Dark Energy Digital Ltd/Microsoft Game Studios) – 1200 Microsoft Points
• October 6: “Comic Jumper” (Twisted Pixel Games/Microsoft Game Studios) – 1200 Microsoft Points
• October 13: “Pinball FX 2” (ZEN Studios/Microsoft Game Studios) – Tables purchased individually, free import from original “Pinball FX”
• October 20: “Super Meat Boy” (Team Meat/Microsoft Game Studios) – Pricing TBD

Itching to dive into the definitive new multiplayer experience in “Halo®: Reach?”  Following launch on September 14, Xbox LIVE Silver members can enjoy exclusive Gold-only features for a limited time. From September 17 (12:00 pm ET / 9:00 am PT) through September 20 (12:00 pm ET / 9:00 am PT) Xbox LIVE Silver members can take advantage of industry-leading multiplayer, not to mention exclusive access to movies, TV shows, music and friends via Netflix, Zune video, Last.fm, Facebook and more.  These Gold-only features will be available all weekend long for the whole Xbox LIVE community.

Then get ready to stretch your brain-power with puzzle-inspired games and trivia! Test your geographical skills, build the highest skyscrapers, topple the dark and atrocious Ashuring Empire, and more – all for 30 – 70 percent off.

Contact us!
For more information (press only), email us at xboxnewsbeat@edelman.com.

This November, Xbox 360 owners will be able to alter their controller with the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller with Play & Charge Kit – with Transforming D-pad. The matte silver controller contains a transforming directional pad that provides ultimate accuracy and control for both directional as well as sweeping movements. The Xbox 360 Wireless Controller with Transforming D-pad comes complete with a Play and Charge kit for $64.99 (U.S. ERP) and will ship to retailers beginning Nov. 9.

Select the traditional plus for distinct cardinal direction movement in games like “Halo: Reach” to change weapons and perform complicated combinations and deadly finishing moves in “Street Fighter” games, or rotate the D-pad to the disc format for sweeping motions in games such as “Pro Evolution Soccer 2011.” Choose your favorite controller set-up and experience unrivaled precision for all Xbox 360 games.

The award-winning Xbox 360 Wireless Controller is taken to the next level with a unique and premium button design, a matte silver color with grey A, B, X, Y buttons and comfortable, concave analog sticks. The Play & Charge Kit includes a charging cable and rechargeable battery pack for uninterrupted gameplay and up to 25 hours of play per charge.

For more information on the Special Edition Xbox 360Wireless Controller with Transforming D-pad, visit www.xbox.com.  

# # #

For more information and photos, press only:

                  Natalie Edwards, natalie.edwards@edelman.com, 323-202-1461

                  Alyssa Odle, alyssa.odle@edelman.com, 323-202-1903

Starting today, Microsoft is inviting everyone to bear witness to the heroism of Noble Team, as depicted in a dramatic, live-action short for the launch of the biggest game of the year on September 14^th. Titled “Deliver Hope,” the short is a riveting, action-packed production that offers an emotional look at the courage and sacrifice of Noble Team in their defense of the planet Reach from a crushing Covenant invasion.

“Deliver Hope” debuts today at Halo.Xbox.com, on Halo Waypoint and on www.bungie.net, introducing the epic nature of the “Halo: Reach” story and continuing the tradition of bringing the “Halo” universe to life via gripping live-action shorts. Then starting on August 29, the “Deliver Hope” campaign will begin airing on major networks in primetime and late night, including on CBS, NBC and FOX. Additionally, the live-action short will debut on a multitude of cable networks, such as MTV, Spike TV, Comedy Central, SyFy, ESPN, F/X, TNT, TBS, Discovery Channel, G4, and more.

“Deliver Hope” is the dramatic capstone to the series of live-action ads from acclaimed director Noam Murro (“Smart People”), who also directed the “Halo: Reach” “Birth of a Spartan” short and a collection of live-action vignettes housed at RememberReach.com. An extended version of “Deliver Hope” will debut exclusively on YouTube the week of Sept. 6.

“Deliver Hope” features an original musical score written and produced by Human, with Brian Emerich (“The Wrestler”) as sound designer. The short was directed by Noam Murro and edited by Angus Wall (“The Social Network”), and was filmed on location in Prague. For the production of “Deliver Hope,” Microsoft and Bungie partnered with top industry talent including ad agency Agency 215, Legacy Effects (props) and Method Studios (visual effects).

Fans wishing to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the heroes of Noble Team and the planet Reach are invited to dedicate a point of light at www.RememberReach.com, where a collection of live-action shorts can be viewed depicting life on Reach just prior to the Covenant invasion.

“Halo: Reach” is now available for pre-order at participating retailers worldwide in Standard, Limited and Legendary editions. Additionally, a stunning lineup of custom-designed “Halo: Reach” hardware products are also currently available for pre-order. The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle will be available day and date with “Halo: Reach” on Sept. 14, along with the “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller and Wireless Headset. As a special bonus, fans can receive a token to unlock an exclusive in-game Spartan Recon Helmet by picking up a copy of the game on launch day at North American retail stores, and outside of North America by making a pre-order reservation at participating retailers.

Developed by award-winning studio Bungie exclusively for Xbox 360, “Halo: Reach” launches worldwide on Sept. 14, 2010, and in Japan on Sept. 15.

######

For .wmv versions of “Deliver Hope,” visit (please do not publish this URL): http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Halo%20Reach/Deliver%20Hope/  

EDITOR’S NOTE: The ESRB requires that all trailers with Mature ("M") or Adults Only ("AO") content MUST be behind an ESRB compliant age-gate with NO EXCEPTIONS.

For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, (323) 202-1074, mark.van.lommel@edelman.com

Ken Zhang, Edelman, (206) 505-6565, ken.zhang@edelman.com

 “Halo: Reach” experience site at RememberReach.com launches today, along with a collection of dramatic live-action vignettes

With the worldwide launch of the biggest blockbuster game of the year just three weeks away, Microsoft is calling all “Halo” fans to participate in a one-of-a-kind experience: the creation of a monument of light commemorating the heroes of Noble Team and the planet Reach. Over the next three weeks, visitors to RememberReach.com can contribute a point of light that will help form a dramatic monument to “Halo: Reach.” Along with the monument’s formation, a collection of three live-action short films from acclaimed director Noam Murro will be unveiled to bring to life glimpses of what it was like living on Reach just prior to the Covenant invasion.

Visitors can explore and contribute to RememberReach.com, where a continually regenerating sculpture composed of thousands of points of light will take form, produced by a state-of-the-art robotic installation. By guiding a robotic arm to their chosen coordinates, visitors will add another light to the sculpture, honoring the heroic Spartans in the most anticipated game of 2010. The monument is constructed by special camera equipment which captures and composites the movements and light pulses from the robotic arm, which visitors can see in action on the website.

As the community bands together to create a monument to the highly anticipated launch of “Halo: Reach,” they will also be able to access other content, including a collection of dramatic live-action shorts that capture a poignant snapshot of life on the planet Reach just before the arrival of the dreaded Covenant. The stirring vignettes offer an intimate look at the lives of citizens and soldiers on Reach prior to the legendary battle that set the epic “Halo” saga in motion.

The live-action shorts are directed by Noam Murro, the award-winning director of the “Halo: Reach” “Birth of a Spartan” cinematic short and the 2008 feature film “Smart People.” A five-time nominee and 2005 winner of the Director’s Guild of America’s Director of the Year award, Murro was also recently named the U.K.’s #1 director by Campaign magazine.

Fans also won’t want to miss the world premiere of the final “Halo: Reach” live-action short, titled “Deliver Hope,” which debuts this Thursday, Aug. 26 on Halo.Xbox.com, Halo Waypoint and www.bungie.net.

“Halo: Reach” is now available for preorder at participating retailers worldwide in Standard, Limited and Legendary editions. The Standard Edition has an estimated retail price of $59.99 (U.S.), and the Limited and Legendary editions of the game will retail for $79.99 and $149.99 (U.S.), respectively, and are packed with bonus content and collectibles.

Additionally, a stunning lineup of custom-designed “Halo: Reach” hardware products are also currently available for preorder. The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle will be available day and date with “Halo: Reach” on Sept. 14, and has a suggested retail price of $399 (U.S.). The “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller and Wireless Headset will be available in late August for the estimated retail prices of $59.99 (U.S.) and $49.99 (U.S.), respectively.

As a special bonus, fans can receive a token to unlock an exclusive in-game Spartan Recon Helmet, by picking up a copy of the game on launch day at North American retail stores, and outside of North America by making a pre-order reservation at participating retailers.

Developed by award-winning studio Bungie exclusively for Xbox 360, “Halo: Reach” launches worldwide on Sept. 14, 2010, and in Japan on Sept. 15.

######

For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, (323) 202-1074, mark.van.lommel@edelman.com

Ken Zhang, Edelman, (206) 505-6565, ken.zhang@edelman.com

Just when you thought it was safe to go outside, the action in Pacific City rages on. Coming soon to Xbox LIVE Marketplace, Microsoft Game Studios and Ruffian Games keep the “Crackdown 2” adrenaline pumping with “Toy Box,” the first Game Add-on for the action-packed, open world Xbox 360 exclusive. “Toy Box” offers “Crackdown 2” fans free downloadable content and an additional premium content pack for 560 Microsoft Points to keep the guns blazing and the bodies flying long after you rid Pacific City of crime and injustice.

The “Toy Box” Game Add-on is a literal free-for-all, offering all “Crackdown 2” owning fans the new Vehicle Tag mode, a Level 6 ability reward and the Keys to the City at no cost to bring the high-flying action to even greater heights. For fans who want to take things to the next level, “Toy Box” also comes with bonus content that can be purchased for 560 Microsoft Points, including 10 new Achievements, Avatar Awards and new vehicles and gadgets.

“Toy Box” offers explosive free Game Add-on content to all “Crackdown 2” owning fans:

·         Keys to the City: Made notorious in the first “Crackdown” expansion as the ultimate cheat mode, Keys to the City returns to “Crackdown 2” and puts an even bigger set of tools at your disposal, including God Mode, Infinite Ammo, Fly Cam, spawning of weapons, gadgets and more, the ability to freeze the time of day, and pushing all skills to the maximum to become faster, stronger and more lethal.

·         Level 6 Reward: Fans who reach Level 6 on all Agent skills will be rewarded with the new Thruster Ability. Thruster Ability is like having jetpacks for your boots, giving Agents built-in vertical propulsion to activate flying with the Wingsuit no matter where you are in the game.

·         Vehicle Tag*: Once you’re done taking down the Freaks and the Cell, join your friends for a thrilling new multiplayer mode where up to eight Agents can compete in these six arenas: Speed is the Quay, Industrial Action, Maim Street, Skid Row, Beachhead and The Sum of Human Knowledge.

If that’s not enough to get your heart racing, fans can purchase additional in-game content to extend their gaming experience for 560 Microsoft Points on Xbox LIVE Marketplace:

·         Two New Vehicles*: Access two new vehicles: the wall climbing aquatic mini-tank called the Agency ATV and the Squad Chopper, which allows four players to jump in and man their own weapon, including the proximity mine launcher, precision rocket launcher, twin machine guns and nose machine gun.

·         Five New Toys*: Whether you’re soaring to greater heights or orchestrating a massive explosion, get creative with the following new toys: The Mass Driver (turreted gravity bending weapon), Portable Launch Pads (allows Agents to create their own launch pad jumps), Stickler Grenade (bouncing grenade that sets off smaller explosive charges as it bounces), Thrusters (allow vertical thrust), and Mags on Characters (allow Mag Grenades to be attached to characters).

·         Two Avatar Awards: Deck your Agent in the latest gear. “Toy Box” offers two Avatar Awards to customize your Xbox LIVE Avatar with the Xbox Green Suit (must complete the Rocketeer Achievement) and Green Helmet.

·         10 New Achievements: Pacific City never sleeps and neither do the exploits. Industrious Agents will be rewarded with 10 new Achievements and 250 Gamerscore:

1)      Beyond the Infinite

2)      Run Get to the Chopper

3)      Rocketeer

4)      Tac Loc Takedown

5)      Burnt Offerings

6)      Mile High Club

7)      Never Give It Up

8)      One Careful Driver

9)      Wing a Ding Ding

10)   Hung Out To Dry

·         Eight Agent Suit Colors: Pick up eight new shades of in-game armor for your Agent:

1)      Peacekeeper

2)      Terror Firma

3)      Agent Orange

4)      May Contain Nuts

5)      Minti-Sting

6)      Mega Agent

7)      Haz Mat

8)      Dem Apples

*Players who have not purchased the premium “Toy Box” content will only have access to the new vehicles and gadgets during multiplayer games if a friend who has purchased the premium content joins. Downloading “Toy Box” is not required to continue engaging in other multiplayer gameplay modes with those who have downloaded it.

“Crackdown 2” builds exponentially upon the sizzling, action-packed gameplay of its predecessor, including the all new 4-player co-op and 16-player multiplayer modes. With formidable new enemies called the Cell and the Freaks standing in the way of the Agency’s goal to restore order, players return as genetically enhanced Agents in “Crackdown 2” to once again bring peace to Pacific City – by any means necessary. Sign in to your Xbox LIVE account to access the public demo today. Visit xbox.com/crackdown2 for more information and www.chucksducks2.com to access the Facebook experience.

# # #

“Crackdown 2” is developed by Ruffian Games, rated “M” for Mature by the ESRB and is available globally. To access screenshots, trailers and game information, visit: http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Crackdown%202/. (Please do not publish this URL.)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT  

Ignite your sense of adventure and dive into the action/adventure game featuring Tomb Raider icon Lara Croft as Summer of Arcade delivers its final downloadable hit this Wednesday, August 18: “Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light” (Crystal Dynamics/Square Enix). But launch is just the beginning – stay tuned for future downloadable add-ons, including the first expansion pack which Crystal Dynamics will be offering for free for the first 30 days, exclusively on Xbox LIVE.  It’s been an unforgettable summer, so don’t forget to also purchase all five Summer of Arcade games: “LIMBO,” “Hydro Thunder Hurricane,” “Castlevania Harmony of Despair,” “Monday Night Combat” and “Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light” before August 31, 2010 11:59pm EST, and receive 1200 Microsoft Points for free!

Yearning for more downloadable fun after the sun sets on Summer of Arcade? Embark on a completely new “Dead Rising®” (Capcom Entertainment) adventure in “Dead Rising® 2: CASE ZERO” (Capcom Entertainment), available on August 31 exclusively on Xbox LIVE for 400 Microsoft Points. This Prologue consists of unique content not available in the full retail release of “Dead Rising® 2” and will introduce new protagonist Chuck Greene as he and his daughter find themselves caught in a desert town overrun with zombies. Set two years after the original game and three before the action of “Dead Rising® 2,” “Dead Rising 2®: CASE ZERO” explores the link between the two titles and gives players a taste of the new gameplay they will experience in the full game as they create combo weapons, rescue survivors and take on a ruthless Psychos before making their escape.  In addition, players can carry over status and items earned to the full game when “Dead Rising®2” releases in North America on September 28.

AVATAR MARKETPLACE

August 19: “WWE® SmackDown® vs. Raw® 2010” (THQ Inc.)

August 26: University Collection Update

XBOX LIVE ARCADE

August 18: “Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light” (Crystal Dynamics/Square Enix) – 1200 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Korea)

August 25: “Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game” (Ubisoft) – 800 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Asia)

August 25: “Shank™” (Electronic Arts/Klei Entertainment) – 1200 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan and Korea)

One… day… left! Enter to win the “Trials HD – Big Thrills” track editor contest by tomorrow, August 18, for the chance to have your very own track shared with the Xbox LIVE community and vie to win cash prizes up to $5000! Check out www.BigThrillsContest.com for complete rules and details, as well as tips for creating a great track.

DEAL OF THE WEEK

Starting next week, enjoy discounts on content-a-plenty from “BioShock® 2” (2K Games) as you step back into the underwater world of Rapture in the boots of the heavily armed Big Daddy.

Then gear up for an alien invasion! Alien-inspired games and Game Add-ons will be available for 25 -- 50 percent off.

Week of August 23:

“BioShock® 2 Rapture Metro” (2K Games) – 400 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan and Korea)

“BioShock® 2” Sinclair Solutions Tester Pack (2K Games) – 240 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan and Korea)

“BioShock® 2” Rosie Big Daddy Outfit (2K Games) – 240 Microsoft Points and available worldwide

“BioShock® 2” Watchface Big Daddy Doll (2K Games) – 160 Microsoft Points and available worldwide

Week of August 30:

“Zeno Clash Ultimate Edition™” (Atlus U.S.A., Inc.) – 800 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Singapore and Taiwan)

 “Aliens vs Predator™” Swarm Map Pack (SEGA) – 560 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Germany, India and Japan)

“Galaga Legions™” (NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc.) – 400 Microsoft Points and available worldwide

GAME ADD-ONS

August 25: “Snoopy Flying Ace” Suppertime of Destruction Pack – 400 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Taiwan and Korea)

GAMES ON DEMAND

August 17: “The Outfit™” (THQ Inc.) – Available worldwide (except Japan)

Contact us!

For more information (press only), email us at xboxnewsbeat@edelman.com.

In just four weeks, the epic story that catalyzed the events of one of the world’s most celebrated video game sagas will unfold with the launch of “Halo: Reach,” the most anticipated game of the year.  In the face of an insurmountable Covenant invasion, a team of fearless Spartans will rise to the challenge and complete one final, legendary mission.

Bungie and Microsoft today released “A Spartan Will Rise,” a new video for “Halo: Reach” that offers a preview of the inspiring story of Noble Team, a heroic group of Spartans who, through great sacrifice and courage, saved countless lives in the face of impossible odds. The video is available for download today on Halo Waypoint, Halo.Xbox.com and www.bungie.net.

“Halo: Reach” is currently available for preorder in Standard, Limited and Legendary editions at participating retailers worldwide. The Standard Edition has an estimated retail price of $59.99 (U.S.), and the Limited and Legendary editions of the game will retail for $79.99 and $149.99 (U.S.), respectively, and are packed with extras fans won’t want to miss.

Additionally, a stunning lineup of custom-designed “Halo: Reach” hardware products are also currently available for preorder. The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle has a suggested retail price of $399 (U.S.), and will be available on Sept. 14. The “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller and Wireless Headset will be available in late August for the estimated retail prices of $59.99 (U.S.) and $49.99 (U.S.), respectively.

As a special bonus, fans can receive a token to unlock an exclusive in-game Spartan Recon Helmet, by picking up a copy of the game on launch day at North American retail stores, and outside of North America by making a pre-order reservation at participating retailers.

Developed by award-winning studio Bungie exclusively for Xbox 360, “Halo: Reach” launches worldwide on Sept. 14, 2010, and in Japan on Sept. 15.

######

For .wmv versions of “A Spartan Will Rise,” visit (please do not publish this URL): http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Halo%20Reach/

For screenshots of “Corvette,” a new Firefight map unveiled today at gamescom, visit: http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Halo%20Reach/Firefight/gamescom%20Corvette%20screenshots/

EDITOR’S NOTE: The ESRB requires that all trailers with Mature ("M") or Adults Only ("AO") content MUST be behind an ESRB compliant age-gate with NO EXCEPTIONS.

For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, (323) 202-1074, mark.van.lommel@edelman.com

Ken Zhang, Edelman, (206) 505-6565, ken.zhang@edelman.com

Ba-kawk!  A chicken cluck is hardly the battle cry for revolution, but the journey to rule in “Fable III” is a treacherous one and you’ll need all the followers you can get to start the rebellion. Microsoft Game Studios and Lionhead Studios have teamed up to offer a revealing glimpse into “Fable III,” which launches in North America on Oct. 26, with the game’s opening cinematic featuring everyone’s favorite punting target as the most unlikeliest of heroes. Dashing through city streets and hurdling through the air, witness the daily struggles of Albion’s citizens through the eyes of a chicken as he makes the ultimate gamble for freedom. 

In a world where freedom is nothing more than a dream, Albion’s oppressed and downtrodden citizens desperately need a hero. Against all odds, our aspiring hero dares to take a stand against his sworn enemy and puts up a rebel’s fight, paving the road to revolution for those who follow. However, he’ll quickly learn that revolutionaries can’t triumph alone. Will this brave chicken succeed in his quest for freedom or will he pay the ultimate price? The tide is turning and the uprising has begun – will you follow his lead? Make your way to www.lionhead.com to watch the world premiere of the “Fable III” opening cinematic now!

“Fable III” sets the stage for an unparalleled action and adventure experience, in which you will be called upon to lead a rebellion against your brother, the tyrant king Logan, and rise up as the new ruler of Albion. Take part in all the action, drama and humor as you’re propelled into a rich and engaging story, featuring a unique cast of characters around you.

“Fable III” will be available in a Standard Edition ($59.99) and Limited Collector’s Edition ($79.99) for Xbox 360, and is available now for pre-order at participating retailers. With the all-new character creator tool at xbox.com/fable3, called the “Fable III” Villager Maker, fans who pre-order the game can create and bring their personalized villager to life. The in-game villager will deliver to your hero a thrilling new quest and 1,000 gold in fortune.  

# # #

“Fable III” launches in the North America on Oct. 26 and is rated M for Mature by the ESRB. For more information, visit xbox.com/fable.  For additional details, visit Lionhead at lionhead.com/fable3 and facebook.com/fable3.  For general assets, including the opening cinematic, visit http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Fable%20III/.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT  

Summer of Arcade keeps getting hotter! Get ready to hunt vampires and fight in the future with “Castlevania Harmony of Despair” (Konami Digital Entertainment) and “Monday Night Combat” (Uber Entertainment/Microsoft Game Studios) on Xbox LIVE Arcade. Don’t forget – purchase all five Summer of Arcade games: “LIMBO,” “Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light,” “Hydro Thunder Hurricane,” “Castlevania Harmony of Despair” and “Monday Night Combat” before August 31, 2010 11:59pm EST, and receive 1200 Microsoft Points for free!

AVATAR MARKETPLACE

August 5: Roxy/Quiksilver

XBOX LIVE ARCADE

August 4: “Castlevania Harmony of Despair” (Konami Digital Entertainment) – 1200 Microsoft Points and available worldwide.

August 11: “Monday Night Combat” (Uber Entertainment/Microsoft Game Studios) – 1200 Microsoft Points and available worldwide.

You still have the chance to enter to win the “Trials HD – Big Thrills” track editor contest! The entry period ends on August 18, leaving just two more weeks to build your very own track to be shared with the Xbox LIVE community and vie for the chance to win cash prizes up to $5000! Check out www.BigThrillsContest.com for complete rules and details, as well as tips for creating a great track.

DEAL OF THE WEEK

Immerse yourself in the award-winning dark heroic fantasy, “Dragon Age™: Origins” (Electronic Arts), in a special extended edition of Deal of the Week.  Enjoy two full weeks of discounted “Dragon Age™: Origins” goods: Game Add-ons galore and an exclusive Avatar t-shirt, all for 25 percent – 50 percent off!

Week of August 9 through August 22:

“Dragon Age™: Origins – Awakening” – 2400 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan)

“Dragon Age™: Origins Return to Ostagar” – 240 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan)

“Dragon Age™: Origins Warden's Keep” – 400 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan)

“Dragon Age™: Origins” Blood Dragon Red Avatar T-shirt – 40 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan)

GAME ADD-ONS

August 10: “Red Dead Redemption™: Legends and Killers Pack” (Rockstar San Diego) – 800 Microsoft Points and available worldwide (except Japan)

August 10: “Dragon Age™: Origins The Golems of Amgarrak” (Electronic Arts) – 400 Microsoft Points and available worldwide

August 13: “Lips” songs from acclaimed composer Andrew Lloyd Webber (Microsoft Game Studios) – 160 Microsoft Points per song and available worldwide

GAMES ON DEMAND

On August 3, enjoy permanently dropped prices on several popular Games on Demand titles including “Assassin’s Creed™” (Ubisoft), “Tom Clancy's EndWar™” (Ubisoft), “Shaun White Snowboarding” (Ubisoft) and more! 

Check out fresh additions to the ever-growing Games on Demand library too!

August 3: “Too Human™” (Microsoft Game Studios) – Available worldwide (except Japan)

August 10: “Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X” (Ubisoft Entertainment SA) – Available worldwide (except Japan and India)

August 10: “Disney Sing It: High School Musical 3: Senior Year” (Disney Interactive Studio) – Available worldwide (except Japan and Korea)

Contact us!

For more information (press only), email us at xboxnewsbeat@edelman.com.

The “Fable III” pre-order tool invites fans to design their own villager with over 2,000 possibilities; pre-order incentive includes bonus quest and gold fortune

Great heroes of the past and present all know one thing is true: the revolution starts with you. That’s why Microsoft and Lionhead Studios are giving fans the chance to get into the action now before “Fable III” launches in the U.S. on Oct. 26. With the all-new character creator tool, called the “Fable III” Villager Maker, fans who pre-order the game can create and bring their personalized villager to life. Your custom in-game villager will deliver to your hero a thrilling new quest and 1,000 gold fortune, and then continue to interact with you on your journey to become ruler of Albion.

The Villager Maker, launching today in the U.S. and U.K. and worldwide later this week, is available for everyone to access and experiment with at www.xbox.com/fable3. Fans can utilize the tool to create a male or female villager with more than 2,000 different variations, including an enthralling backstory for the character, unique personality traits, clothing, accent, hairstyles and the region they hail from. Whether you create a valiant ally, an evil villain, or perhaps the perfect spouse, let your imagination run free as you make your mark in the fantastical world of “Fable III.”

The fun doesn’t stop there. With the Villager Maker, you’ll be able to save your character as a desktop wallpaper and share your creation with your friends on Facebook and Twitter to see who has the coolest design. Anyone can start designing, but transporting the villager into “Fable III” is a reward given only to fans who pre-order the game at participating retailers. A redeemable code will be provided that allows players to bring their character creation to life in “Fable III” when the game launches.

“Fable III” sets the stage for an unparalleled action and adventure experience, in which you will be called upon to lead a rebellion and rise up as the new ruler of Albion. The choices and sacrifices you make while fanning the flames of revolution, and then as you rule as King or Queen, will lead to an ever evolving world of consequences that will be felt across your entire land. Witness all the action, drama and humor as you’re propelled into a rich and engaging story, featuring a unique cast of characters around you.

“Fable III” will be available in a Standard Edition ($59.99) and Limited Collector’s Edition ($79.99) for Xbox 360.The Limited Edition offers unique collectibles that true “Fable” fans won’t want to miss, including downloadable content that Windows gamers can also access. Wrapped up in the likeness of a book from “Fable III,” the contents include an exclusive quest, dog breed, outfit, playing cards, a Guild Seal Coin and more.

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“Fable III” launches in the U.S. on Oct. 26 and is rated M for Mature by the ESRB. For more information, visit xbox.com/fable. For additional details, visit Lionhead at lionhead.com/fable3 and facebook.com/fable3. For general assets, visit http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Fable%20III/.

For more information, press only:

                Farm Saechou, farm.saechou@edelman.com, 415-486-3295

                Cliff Jin, cliff.jin@edelman.com, 323-202-1466

In less than seven weeks, the epic battle for humanity’s survival will begin with the launch of the most anticipated game of 2010, “Halo: Reach.” To prepare the millions of fans worldwide awaiting the prequel to the blockbuster “Halo” trilogy, Bungie and Microsoft today released a stunning new trailer that offers a glimpse of the heroic themes and non-stop action in the most ambitious campaign in “Halo’s” history. Featuring a stirring sample of the original score by famed “Halo” composer Marty O’Donnell, the breathtaking trailer showcases several dramatic sequences from the game, including the Covenant invasion of the planet Reach and Noble Team’s effort to take the fight from the planet’s surface to space.

The debut of the new campaign trailer follows a slew of exciting “Halo: Reach” announcements at Comic-Con last week, including the world premiere of two brand new multiplayer experiences in “Halo: Reach”: Forge World and Firefight Versus. Forge World is a vast new environment in “Halo: Reach” with unlimited creative potential that will allow players to create and share their unique map designs over Xbox LIVE. Firefight Versus is a brand new multiplayer mode that pits a team of player-controlled Elites with Covenant AI support against a team of player-controlled Spartans. With an epic campaign, diverse competitive and cooperative multiplayer experiences, robust user-creation tools, player rewards, and more, “Halo: Reach” is the most ambitious “Halo” game ever and promises to set a new standard for action-packed entertainment, replayability and customization.

Additionally, Microsoft and Bungie announced a stunning lineup of custom-designed “Halo: Reach” hardware products at Comic-Con, including the Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle, “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller and “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Headset. The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle has a suggested retail price of $399 (U.S.), and will be available on Sept. 14. The “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller and Wireless Headset will be available in late August for the estimated retail prices of $59.99 (U.S.) and $49.99 (U.S.), respectively. All three products are available for preorder today while supplies last.

“Halo: Reach” is currently available for preorder in Standard, Limited and Legendary editions at participating retailers worldwide. The Standard Edition has an estimated retail price of $59.99 (U.S.), and the Limited and Legendary editions of the game will retail for $79.99 and $149.99 (U.S.), respectively, and are packed with extras fans won’t want to miss. As a special bonus, fans can receive a token to unlock an exclusive in-game Spartan Recon Helmet, by picking up a copy of the game on launch day at North American retail stores, and outside of North America by making a pre-order reservation at participating retailers.

Developed by award-winning studio Bungie exclusively for Xbox 360, “Halo: Reach” launches worldwide on Sept. 14, 2010, and in Japan on Sept. 15.

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For .wmv versions of the new “Halo: Reach” campaign trailer, visit (please do not publish this URL): http://edelmanadmin.psni.com/public/Halo%20Reach/

EDITOR’S NOTE: The ESRB requires that all trailers with Mature ("M") or Adults Only ("AO") content MUST be behind an ESRB compliant age-gate with NO EXCEPTIONS.

For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, (323) 202-1074, mark.van.lommel@edelman.com

Ken Zhang, Edelman, (206) 505-6565, ken.zhang@edelman.com

New launch trailer also premieres today

Now is the time to descend into madness as you explore the dark and twisted world of “The Signal,” the first Game Add-on for “Alan Wake.”  In this latest chapter to the critically acclaimed psychological action thriller exclusive to Xbox 360, our favorite writer is in greater peril than ever before as the boundaries between reality and nightmare become disturbingly distorted.  Threatening to overwhelm Alan’s mind, the nightmarish mysteries feel chillingly familiar.  Keep your flashlight nearby as you get ready to follow “The Signal.” 

“Alan Wake” fans can take a glimpse into Alan’s terrifying world with the debut of a new trailer.  The video is now available for viewing on xbox.com/alanwake.  As the freakish landscapes and enemies become all-too-real, Alan must find a way to escape in “The Signal,” offering a heart-pounding thrill ride featuring new locations and innovative gameplay.

For “Alan Wake” fans that purchased new copies of the game, a token card is included in each copy to download “The Signal” at no cost.  For those looking to purchase the Game Add-on, “The Signal” is available for download exclusively on Xbox LIVE for 560 Microsoft Points.

Fans can also further immerse themselves in the mystery of “Alan Wake” through the “Alan Wake” novel from Tor Books, the original soundtrack by Sumthing Else Music Works, the official strategy guide from Prima Games, and the "Alan Wake Illuminated" hardcover art book from Random House.  Those who want to gear up properly for their adventure through Bright Falls can also stock up at the official “Alan Wake” store and at CafePress. 

Bringing a new style of storytelling to Xbox 360, “Alan Wake” is a psychological action thriller from Remedy, the renowned original developers of the successful “Max Payne” series.  The game immerses players in an intense and expansive cinematic world with hyper-realistic and interactive environments modeled after real locations in Washington and Oregon.  “Alan Wake” is episodic-based with a deeply engaging and suspenseful storyline inspired by the likes of Stephen King, “Lost” and “Twin Peaks,” unveiling new twists and profound character revelations at every turn.  Rated T for Teen, for more information and trailers, please visit xbox.com/alanwake.

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For more information, press only:

Angella Wong, Edelman, (323) 202-1045, angella.wong@edelman.com 

Microsoft and Bungie also reveal Forge World for “Halo: Reach,” empowering aspiring game designers to build and share unique map creations over Xbox LIVE when the game releases this September

The biggest game of 2010, “Halo: Reach,” is getting the ultimate hardware treatment. The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle launches day and date with the game on September 14 and provides both an incredible value and a stunning way to celebrate the iconic franchise. The commemorative bundle will be available with matching custom “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controllers. Additionally, Microsoft and Bungie revealed an onslaught of other “Halo: Reach” news today at Comic-Con International, including a first look at Forge World, Versus Firefight mode and more.

The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle is Available for Pre-Order Today

The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle features an exclusive silver design and comes with two custom Xbox 360 Wireless Controllers with artwork inspired by the game, a Standard Edition copy of “Halo: Reach,” a token for the Limited Edition Elite armor set, an episode of “Halo Legends” and a “Halo: Reach”-themed Xbox 360 wired headset. As an added touch, the specially designed console in the Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle not only captures the look and feel of the game, but also features custom sound effects from the “Halo” universe.

Designed by Bungie, the Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle includes all the features of the newly designed Xbox 360 console, such as a 250 GB Hard Drive and the fastest built-in Wi-Fi for the easiest connection to Xbox LIVE. The bundle is available in limited quantities and only while supplies last, so fans who want to own a piece of the “Halo” mythology are encouraged to pre-order quickly. The Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle has a suggested retail price of $399 USD, and will be available on Sept. 14. To offer a closer look at the contents of the Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle, Microsoft and Bungie unveiled an unboxing video of the bundle, which is available for download today on Halo Waypoint and Halo.Xbox.com.

“Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller and Wireless Headset Available Worldwide in Late August

In addition to the exclusive new console bundle, Microsoft and Bungie unveiled the “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller and the “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Headset, both of which feature a distinctive silver color and exclusive “Halo” artwork by Bungie. Available in late August for $59.99 (U.S.), the “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Controller includes an Xbox LIVE token for an animated Covenant Banshee Avatar item. The “Halo: Reach” Limited Edition Wireless Headset will also be available in late August for an estimated retail price of $49.99 (U.S.). Both accessories are being produced in limited quantities and are available for pre-order today.

Forge World and Versus Firefight Modes Revealed

Continuing the “Halo” tradition of offering players a groundbreaking level of customization, Microsoft and Bungie announced Forge 2.0, a robust set of new editing tools built into “Halo: Reach” that will empower aspiring game designers to easily create and share their unique “Halo: Reach” multiplayer map creations with the world. Set on one of the series’ iconic “Halo” rings, Forge World is a massive, beautifully-rendered landscape that serves as a giant canvas for players to build unique map creations alone or cooperatively with up to seven friends on Xbox LIVE or system link, or three friends via split-screen. Utilizing the upgraded Forge 2.0 toolset, Forge World holds unlimited creative potential for millions of armchair designers to sculpt, build and share the most intricate and visually stunning maps they can imagine. To showcase the new features in Forge 2.0, Bungie released a new ViDoc that will take viewers on a whirlwind tour of Forge World, which is available for download today on Halo Waypoint, Halo.Xbox.com and www.bungie.net.

Additionally, Microsoft and Bungie are giving attendees at Comic-Con International the first public hands-on with the Firefight multiplayer mode at the Xbox booth, including the newly unveiled Versus Firefight mode, which pits a team of player-controlled Elites with Covenant AI support against a team of player-controlled Spartans. Everyone who plays a Firefight match will receive a free token to unlock an exclusive Noble 6 helmet for their Xbox LIVE Avatars.

The “Halo” excitement at Comic-Con continues throughout the week at the Xbox booth, and on Sunday there will be a special “Halo” panel hosted by 343 Industries at 11:00 a.m. in Room 32AB. “Halo” franchise development director Frank O’Connor hosts this panel of renowned “Halo” creators to discuss the future of the broader “Halo” universe, including appearances by authors and representatives from long-standing partners including Tor Books and Marvel Comics. Additionally, a few lucky fans will receive Comic-Con exclusive commemorative posters celebrating the “Halo” universe by attending the panel event.

Developed by acclaimed studio Bungie exclusively for Xbox 360, “Halo: Reach” launches worldwide on Sept. 14, 2010, and in Japan on Sept. 15. “Halo: Reach” is available for preorder in Standard, Limited and Legendary editions at participating retailers worldwide. The Standard Edition has an estimated retail price of $59.99 (U.S.), and the Limited and Legendary editions of the game will retail for $79.99 and $149.99 (U.S.), respectively, and are packed with extras fans won’t want to miss. As a special bonus, fans can receive a token to unlock an exclusive in-game Spartan Recon Helmet, by picking up a copy of the game on launch day at North American retail stores, and outside of North America by making a pre-order reservation at participating retailers. Fans are encouraged to pre-order quickly as quantities of the Limited and Legendary editions are selling fast and are expected to be completely pre-sold by launch.

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For new Firefight screenshots and high-resolution images of the Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle and accessories, Covenant Banshee Avatar item, and .wmv versions of the Forge World ViDoc and the Xbox 360 Limited Edition “Halo: Reach” Bundle unboxing video, visit (do not publish this URL): http://edelman.psni.com/public/Halo%20Reach/.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The ESRB requires that all trailers with Mature ("M") or Adults Only ("AO") content MUST be behind an ESRB compliant age-gate with NO EXCEPTIONS.

For more information, press only:

Mark Van Lommel, Edelman, (323) 202-1074, mark.van.lommel@edelman.com

Ken Zhang, Edelman, (206) 505-6565, ken.zhang@edelman.com