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{{Infobox CVG
|title = Halo 3
|image = [[Image:Halo 3 final boxshot.JPG|256px]]
|developer = [[Bungie Studios]]
|publisher = [[Microsoft Game Studios]]
|designer =
|series = ''[[Halo (series)|Halo]]''
|engine = [[Proprietary]] <!--There was no name given to either Halo or Halo 2's game engine and it will most likely be the same with Halo 3's. -->
|picture format = [[720p]] ([[HDTV]]) <!--720p is the native, all the others are available through the hardware scaling on the Xbox 360. We don't need to mention those since EVERY 360 game can do those. Only relevant resolution is native one. -->
|version =
|released = {{vgrelease|North America|NA|[[September 25]] [[2007]]}}<ref name=releasedate>{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12467 |title = Finish the Fight on September 25, 2007 |accessdate = 2007-05-16 |author = Luke Smith (Lukems) |date = 2007-05-15 |format = HTML |publisher = Bungie Software |quote = On September 25, 2007, players will be able to finish the fight they started in Halo: Combat Evolved and continued in Halo 2. Halo 3 will release in Europe on September 26, 2007}}</ref><br />
{{vgrelease|Europe|EU|[[September 26]] [[2007]]}}<ref name=releasedate /><br />
{{vgrelease|Japan|JP|[[September 27]] [[2007]]}}<ref name="japrelease">{{cite web |url = http://www.xbox.com/ja-JP/games/h/halo3/ |title = Halo 3 Page Xbox Japan |accessdate = 2007-06-15 |author = Microsoft Games Studio |authorlink = Microsoft Game Studios |year = 2007 |format = HTML |publisher = Xbox.com/ja-JP/ |language = Japanese |quote = 発売日: 2007/09/27 }}</ref>
|genre = [[First-person shooter]]
|modes = [[Single player]], [[Cooperative gameplay|Cooperative mode]], [[Multiplayer]] and [[Online multiplayer]]
|ratings = [[Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]]: M<br /> [[Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]]: D<br>[[Office of Film and Literature Classification (Australia)|OFLC]]: M<ref>{{web cite|url=http://www.classification.gov.au/special.html?n=46&p=156&sTitle=Halo+3&sTitleExact=1&sMediaGames=1&sDateFromM=1&sDateFromY=2003&sDateToM=10&sDateToY=2007&record=221739|title=HALO 3 Game (Multi Platform)|publisher=The Classification Board and Classification Review Board|accessdate=2007-07-18}}</ref>
|platforms = [[Xbox 360]]
|media = [[DVD-DL]]
|requirements =
|input = [[Gamepad#Xbox 360|Xbox 360 Controller]]
|footnotes =
}}
'''''Halo 3''''', the third [[video game]] in the [[Xbox]] science fiction franchise ''[[Halo (video game series)|Halo]]'', is a [[first-person shooter]] under development by [[Bungie Studios]] for the [[Xbox 360]] and is expected to "set a new high water mark" for next-generation games.<ref name=Time>[[TIME Magazine]], [[March 19]], [[2007]], page 52</ref> An [http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=Halo3Announcement official announcement] on the developer's website states that ''Halo 3'' will end the current [[story arc]] of the [[Halo (series)|''Halo'' trilogy]]. A public [[beta test]] of the multiplayer component of the game occurred between [[May 16]], [[2007]] and [[June 10]], [[2007]].<ref name=multiplayermadness>{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=MPBetaAndVidocRelease |title = Inside Bungie: Multiplayer Madness! |accessdate = 2007-04-17 |author = Frank O'Connor (Frankie) |date = 2007-04-10 |format = HTML |publisher = Bungie.net |quote = The Halo 3 Multiplayer Beta will go live on May 16th at 12:00 AM PDT and run through June 6th at 11:59 PM PDT}}</ref> The final version of the game is due to be released on [[September 25]], [[2007]]<ref name=releasedate /> in the [[United States]], [[Canada]] and [[Australia]], and on [[September 26]], [[2007]] in [[Europe]].
==Gameplay==
{{Cleanup|date=July 2007}}
As a [[first person shooter]] (with occasional third person viewpoints) and action game, ''Halo 3'' involves a lot of running, jumping and driving from one point to the next, attempting not to get killed by the game's enemies: the [[Covenant (Halo)|Covenant]] and the [[Flood (Halo)|Flood]]. Often players must kill their foes (though this is not always required) in order to advance the game. This can be done by a variety of means but [[shooting]] them is the most commonly employed. But hitting ([[melee]]) or ramming objects into them (with vehicles or otherwise), throwing [[grenades]] or other explosives at them and even forcing them off large heights can all cause enemies to die, and the game to progress.
The balance of weapons and objects in the game has been adjusted to adhere to what [[Multiplayer]] Designer Lars Bakken describes as the "Golden Three Things of ''Halo''". These are weapons, grenades, and melee attacks; all three of which are simultaneously available to a player at all times while on foot (unless they are dual wielding).
The idea of "balance" (at least in multiplayer) is that each specific weapon or piece of equipment has specific areas were it is most useful, and others where it falls far short. No matter what combination of weapons a player chooses (players are famously limited only two choices of weapons in ''Halo''), there will be situations in which they have an advantage, and others in which they have a disadvantage. The result is that there is no one weapon/vehicle that is overwhelmingly the best overall choice for whatever type of situation they may encounter (unlike the M6D pistol in the original [[Halo: Combat Evolved|Halo]]).
[[Image:Halo 3 control scheme.jpg|left|thumb|250px|The current default controller layout.]]
[[AI]] behavior of both enemies and allies in the campaign will be greatly enhanced in ''Halo 3''. Marines' driving and gunning skills on the Warthog, Grunt flanking maneuvers in battle, and Brute "[[pack mentality]]" have all been mentioned by Bungie as examples of using the power of the Xbox 360 for more than just increased polygon counts. Enemy AI will also have new non-combat behaviors, rather than just sitting around waiting for players to kill them, to make them feel more "alive" and realistic
The new default controller layout will see the Right Bumper become the "action" button (pick up, reload, board vehicles, activate switches, etc), with the '''X''' button being used for deployment of special equipment:<ref name="betaquestions"> {{cite web |url = http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2007/04/10/halo-3-video-questions-cleared-up/ |title = Halo 3 video questions cleared up |accessdate = 2007-04-17 |author = Dustin Burg |date = 2007-04-10 |format = HTML |work = Xbox 360 fanboy Halo 3 Coverage |publisher = Xbox360fanboy.com |quote = ..the new bubble shield and trip mine are two of the X button's deployments ...}}</ref> the portable grav lift, the Bubble Shield, the trip mine and the power drainer. When dual-wielding, weapons can be individually reloaded using either the left or right bumper.
Other buttons are unchanged, but '''B''' (melee attack) also will be used to take a stationary gun turret off its tripod for mobile use, becoming one of the game's "support weapons" (see ''Weaponry'' below),
<ref name="Kotaku 07-05-11">{{cite video | people = Frank O'connor (presenter), Richard Blakeley (Camera), Michael McWhertor (News Writer) |date = 2007-05-11 |title = Kotaku Beta Preview Presentation | url = http://kotaku.com/gaming/has-anyone-here-seen-predator%3F/new-video-of-halo-3-beta-map-weapons-259861.php |format = Flash video/ HTML) |medium = Presentation |publisher = Kotaku.com |accessdate = 2007-05-12 |time = 2:30}}</ref> as well as other context sensitive functions.
As with previous games however, players can still choose to change the default control layout in their game profile to a number of pre-sets. <ref name="betacontrols">{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/content.aspx?link=h3betaWhatsNew |title = H3 Public Beta: Whats new? |accessdate = 2007-07-07 |author = Frank O'Connor (Frankie) |date = 2007-05-15 |format = HTML/ASP |work = Guide to the Halo 3 Beta |publisher = Bungie.net |quote = The default button layout is one of four available in the Beta }}</ref>
===
Only a very limited portion of the Campaign mode has been shown thus far. At [[Marketing for Halo 3#E3 2006 trailer|E3 2006]], in [[Marketing for Halo 3#"Et tu, Brute?" video documentary|"Et Tu, Brute?"]] and again at [[Marketing for Halo 3#E3 2007 trailer |E3 2007]]. There are several distinct types of environments that players will have to traverse in ''Halo 3''; lush jungles, built up towns and sparse desert environments have all been seen.
====Meta-game====
''Halo 3'' features a "campaign meta-game" in which a player is awarded a score for completing a level in the single-player campaign. No other information is available save for a reference to the Achievements associated with them.<ref name="achievements" /> It implies, as with the previous ''Halo'' games, that campaign levels can be replayed freely, and that single-player Xbox Live Leaderboards will be associated with the "meta-game". It has also been said that not only can players attain awards such as medals in campaign, but even more armor permutations.
{{cquote|The latest batch of images also lift the veil on a pair of Armor Permutations in Halo 3. These multiplayer-only, cosmetic changes to your armor are a way to add diversity, spice and flavor to ''Halo 3'''s multiplayer shenanigans. The C.Q.B. (Close Quarters Battle) and E.V.A. (Extra Vehicular Activity) variants of Spartans are two of the numerous permutations players will be able to unlock in ''Halo 3''. <ref name="screenshotsgalore">
{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12616 |title = Way Beyond the Beta: Screenshots Galore |accessdate = 2007-07-04 |author = Lukems |date = 2007-07-03 |format = HTML /ASPX |publisher = Bungie.net |language = English }}</ref> }}
==
Like most multiplayer Xbox 360 titles, ''Halo 3'' will use a customized version of [[TrueSkill]] ranking system for its online matchmaking facilities. ''Halo 3''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s matchmaking system will be based on two different ranks, skill and experience (Rating Points or RP). Skill will simply be the TrueSkill rank of the player in a given playlist, and experience (RP) is a linear measure of experience (1 point for each win in the online playlists). Overlaid by a Military rank; so, a player with a designation of a "General" will have played for a longer time than someone who is a "recruit". This is in order to make the system more fair and to reflect the effect of experience on players' profiles.<ref name="1up-3155479"> {{cite web |url = http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3155479 |title = The Five Best Things About Halo 3 |accessdate = 2007-04-28 |author= Luke Smith |date = 2006-11-24 |format = HTML |work = 1up Halo 3 Coverage |publisher = 1up.com |language = English}}</ref> The RP system also has a mechanism built in to dissuade players from excessive quitting from matches, which became a problem for some players in Halo 2. When players quit from a match before it has finished, they will lose 2 RP. So players that regularly quit games, leaving their teammates stranded, may eventually end up having ''negative'' RP.
UNSC Service Tags (consisting of one letter followed by two numbers) will be used instead of small HUD emblems to identify allies in games. In addition to the customization of Service Tags, players can now choose three different colors (as opposed to two in ''Halo 2'') for their armor in multiplayer (primary, secondary and detail), as well as three for their multiplayer emblem.<ref name="XboxydeBetaMenu"> {{cite web |url = http://www.xboxyde.com/gallery_5404_en.html |title = Halo 3 Beta Character Menu |accessdate = 2007-05-11 |author = BlimBlim |date = 2007-05-11 |format = HTML /JPG Image |work = Xboxyde Halo 3 Coverage |publisher = Xboxyde.com/Gamersyde.com |language = English }}</ref>
In the July 2007 issue of ''[[Gamepro]]'', (as well as a few other local an international magazines) it was revealed that Spartan armor in multiplayer will be customizable in look as well as color.<ref name="GameproJuly">{{Citation | last1= Sid | first1= Vicious | last2 = Marbles |first2 = Mr. |last3 = Moses |first3 = Tenacious |last4 = Offender |first4 = Long-Haired | author-link= GamePro |year = 2007 |date = July |title = Halo Goes Supernova |periodical = GamePro |issue = July 2007 |pages = 48-64 |url = http://www.gamepro.org/news.cfm?article_id=114788 |accessdate = 2007-06-06}}</ref> In addition to the standard Mjolnir-armor look, players can choose to swap out helmet, arm and body sections to the new CQB (Close Quarters Battle) and EVA (Extra Vehicular Activity) armor types, as well as other, unannounced variants. Bungie has not confirmed whether or not the player can be an Elite, but Frankie says in the 06/08/07 Bungie Weekly Update, "Well, it would be kind of weird for us to add so much customization for appearance and forget about one of the major MP characters, wouldn’t it? We’ll have more news about the existence or otherwise of an Elite model fairly soon."
Bungie also stated that they have redesigned the UI (user interface) from ''Halo 2'', making it easier to generate a custom game in ''Halo 3'' multiplayer.
Hosts will now be able to "advertise" their custom games via [[Xbox Live]] Public; making it easier to find a multiplayer match to a player's taste without having to link up with friends.<ref name="1up-3155479" />
In late [[2006]], due to a "significant chunk" of ''Halo 2'' players being female, Bungie was considering to have a female voice for the Spartan character in multiplayer as an additional option.<ref name="cid9170"> {{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=9170 |title = Bungie Weekly Update 2006/11/10 |accessdate = 2006-11-11 |author = Frank O'Connor (Frankie) |date = 2006-11-10 |format = HTML /ASP |publisher = Bungie.net |language = English |archiveurl = http://nikon.bungie.org/bwu/index.html?item=100 |archivedate = 2006-11-11 |quote = ...one of the things we’re looking at for Halo 3 multiplayer is adding a female voice to the Spartan character...}}</ref>
A new feature dubbed the "[[asshole|A-hole]] button" can be used to mute annoying players in the game quickly and easily from the in-game scoreboard view.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6165796.html |title=Halo 3 gets shutup button |accessdate=2007-04-28}}</ref>
People sifting through the code, as well as those who glitched their way into the Custom Game UI, of the ''Halo 3'' Beta have found that the strength of gravity is indeed a customizable option in multiplayer games, confirming statements made by Bungie employees.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://farm1.static.flickr.com/231/503973679_660e011151.jpg|title=Custom gravity options in Halo 3 Beta menus|accessdate=2007-05-24}}</ref>
Judging from a preview [[Quicktime VR]] released by Bungie, the characters appear to have breathing animations when standing still, moving up and down slightly.
====Saved Films====
''Halo 3'' will have a feature called "Saved Films". This feature allows players to save a copy of the game data of a multiplayer match or campaign session to their [[Xbox 360]] [[hard drive]] so they may watch the match over again. The public beta's implementation will only allow viewing of the saved videos from the in-game perspective the person whose recording it is.<ref name="h3betaSavedFilms">{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/content.aspx?link=h3betaSavedFilms |title = Saved Films and File Share |accessdate = 2007-05-16 |author = Frank O'Connor (Frankie) |date = 2007-05-15 |format = HTML /ASPX |work = Halo 3 Beta Guide |publisher = Bungie.net |language = English }}</ref>
In the final game the functionality of the "Saved Film" feature is planned to be extended. Players will be able to view the action from almost any angle and any player's perspective (including a free-roaming camera to "navigate" saved films), as well as being able to slow down the speed, zoom and even play the recording in reverse. Certain sections of the saved films could even be cut out to create a shorter clip of a particularly amazing or special moment.<ref name="h3betaSavedFilms" /> Still pictures from films can also be taken and shared online.
As the Saved Films are only the game data (not an actual video), this allows the file sizes to be relatively small. A recording for a typical "long" game is in the region of only 6 [[megabyte|MB]].<ref name="h3betaSavedFilms" /> Films will also be played back at whatever resolution the [[Xbox 360]] is set to, regardless of the resolution at which the a player was using at the time of the recording. All games are recreated in real-time on the Xbox 360 using the ''Halo 3'' engine.
Players will also be able to show their saved films to other players as well as store a saved film on a central, Bungie run, server with the new File Sharing features. Friends (or rivals) can then view it even when the creating player is not online. During the Beta each player had 25 [[megabyte|MB]] of storage space, which may change by the time the final game ships. The Saved Film feature is described as an "excellent training aid" since players can gain valuable tactical insight into the strategies of other players by viewing the saved films.<ref name="handson">{{cite web |url = http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/h/halo3/20070511-mulitplayerbeta.htm |title = Hands-On: Halo 3 Multiplayer Beta |accessdate = 2007-05-12 |author = Denny Atkin |date = 2007-05-11 |format = HTML |work = Previews on Xbox.com |publisher = Xbox.com |language = English }}</ref>
This feature will also facilitate the creation of [[machinima]] and other game-related videos, as well as give the creators of such videos advanced tools to enhance the quality of this medium. Video game montage creators can save games to the hard drive of their [[Xbox 360]] console for later use, so they never have to miss a camera shot, while machinima directors and cinematographers will have expanded camera options, instead of having to resort to using a first-person, gameplay perspective.
===Weapons===
''Halo 3'' introduces a new-to-the-series class called "support weapons". These are a group of exceptionally large, powerful and cumbersome two-handed weapons that, when carried, change the view to a third-person perspective and cause the player to move more slowly. The only two weapons in this class that have been revealed thus far are the Machine Gun Turret and the Missile Pod, both of which were available in the public beta.
The now-iconic Assault Rifle which appeared in the original ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved|Halo]]'' as the MA5B but was absent from ''[[Halo 2]]'' is returning for ''Halo 3'' retooled into the MA5C. Developer [[Bungie]] hopes it will fill the role as the "ultimate spawn weapon", allowing players to hold their own in a fight straight away (unlike the SMG in ''Halo 2'') but not be so powerful as to overshadow all of the other weapons (like the M6D in ''Halo''). In hopes of fulfilling this, it has a smaller magazine and slower rate of fire than its previous iteration but a longer range and greater accuracy.
There are more new weapons, most in order to expand the "[[The Covenant (Halo)#Brutes|Brute]] Sandbox." The Brute Spiker, a sub machine-gun like weapon with a vicious double blade on the front, and the Spike Grenade, able to stick to any surface and release a controlled explosion of deadly spikes.
When a player is carrying a second weapon in ''Halo 3'', the secondary weapon will be stored on the character's back (for larger, two-handed weapons) or on a leg holster (for smaller, one-handed weapons). This makes it impossible to "hide" a powerful secondary weapon and surprise unsuspecting foes.
===Vehicles===
''Halo 3'', like its predecessors, will also feature a strong vehicular component. Vehicles, and their countermeasures (rockets, mines, etc.), are tightly integrated with ''Halo'' gameplay. Many of the series' vehicles are returning in the third installment. Vehicles cover a wide range of types, including light [[reconnaissance]] vehicles, large, heavily armoured [[tanks]], troop and vehicle transport craft, plus various atmospheric and spacecraft, though not all are usable by the player.
The Mongoose ATV that had been originally designed for ''Halo 2'' but was cut out, finally makes an appearance in ''Halo 3''. Within the games' story, it is a human vehicle in addition to the Scorpion tank and Warthog offroad vehicle. It is a small quad-bike vehicle and, like the ''Warthog'', the driver is unable to fire any on-board weapons, and as such is nearly defenseless. A second player can ride on the back of the vehicle, however, to provide some offensive capability. There will also be a new variant of Warthog, with a rear compartment that can carry more troops instead of a gun. It can be seen briefly in the [[E3 2007]] video.
There is also an entirely new [[The Covenant (Halo)#Brute|Brute]] vehicle, dubbed the "Brute Chopper". Unlike other vehicles attributed to The Covenant in the game, that entirely hover or fly above the ground, it has a single large and heavy wheel on the front with a hovering driver seat behind. <ref name="chopper">{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=chopperfiction |title = The Brute Chopper |accessdate = 2007-07-07 |author = Lukems |date = 2007-07-06 |format = HTML /ASP |publisher = Bungie.net |language = English }}</ref> It has been referred to as a "vehicle smasher," able to destroy other vehicles with a single hit. Insofar it has only been seen in the [[E3 2007]] [[Marketing_for_Halo_3#E3_2007_trailer|Trailer]].
The Banshee and Wraith have been altered in terms of gameplay. The Banshee now has the ability to fire its Fuel Rod Gun in multiplayer matches, an ability which was formerly restricted to Campaign and the multiplayer component of the PC version of Halo: Combat Evolved. The Wraith is now a two-man vehicle. One player drives the vehicles and fires the main cannon, while the other player fires the smaller plasma turret. The plasma turret was formerly exclusive to the Covenant AI in the Halo 2 Campaign.
===Miscellaneous===
[[Fauna]] is undergoing testing for inclusion in the final build of the game, specifically [[seagulls]] and a [[cockatoo]]-like creature.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12310 |title=Bungie Weekly Update: March 23, 2007 |accessdate=2007-03-23}}</ref> Both will exhibit [[Flocking (behavior)|flocking behavior]]. Some Bungie employees are reportedly keen on the possibility of going [[Waterfowl hunting|grousing]] in ''Halo 3''.{{Fact|date=June 2007}}
Although ''Halo 3'' was planned to end the ''Halo'' series, future ''Halo'' games are likely. On the ''Halo 3'' FAQ from the official Bungie website it says, "Q: Is this the last ever ''Halo'' game? A: It is the conclusion to this story arc." This refers to the two announced games in the ''Halo'' universe, including the new ''[[Halo Wars]]'' by Ensemble Studios. Of the [[Untitled Halo Project|other project]], very little is known. Bungie has said that it will be on the Xbox 360, and it will be "made in partnership with ''[[The Lord of the Rings film trilogy|Lord of the Rings]]'' and ''[[King Kong (2005 film)|King Kong]]'' director [[Peter Jackson]]"{{Fact|date=April 2007}} and a recently formed development studio headed by him under the name of [[Wingnut Interactive]].
The game's [[Gamerscore|Achievements]] were revealed on [[June 19]], [[2007]].<ref name="achievements" />
==Synopsis==
===Plot===
The game will not begin right where ''Halo 2'' left off. The new comic mini-series, ''[[Halo: Uprising]]'', will bridge the story gap between the ending of ''Halo 2'', and the beginning of ''Halo 3''.<ref name="H_uprising">{{cite web |url = http://www.halo3.com/html/Halo_Uprising.html |title = Halo: Uprising On Halo3.com |accessdate = 2007-06-22 |author = Bungie Studios |authorlink = Bungie Studios |date = 2007-06-14 |format = HTML |publisher = Halo3.com |language = English|quote = ...the miniseries will bridge the gap between ''Halo 2'' and the upcoming release of the highly-anticipated Halo 3 video game... }}</ref>
When the game begins, [[Master Chief (Halo)|Master Chief]] is back on a thoroughly conquered, [[Covenant (Halo)|Covenant]]-controlled Earth, and [[Cortana]] is still a prisoner of [[Gravemind]]. Covenant ships are hovering over an excavation site a few miles from the ruins of [[New Mombasa]] and have uncovered a large artifact in this site. The [[Arbiter (Halo)|Arbiter]], along with the remaining [[Covenant Elite|Elites]], [[Covenant (Halo)#Hunters|Hunters]], and some portion of the [[Covenant (Halo)#Grunts|Grunts]], have allied themselves with the human forces after splitting from the rest of the Covenant in ''[[Halo 2]]''.
The story mode will be divided into nine main levels,<ref name="achievements">{{cite web |url = http://www.xbox360achievements.org/achievements.php?gameID=274 |title = Halo 3 Achievement List |accessdate = 2007-06-17 |author = Bungie Software |format = HTML |publisher = Xbox360Achievements.org |language = English}}</ref> which gives some information about the game's length and an indistinct view of the story arc.
==Features==
===Graphics===
[[Image:Halo3 draw distance.png|left|thumb|250px|An example of the [[draw distance]] in Halo 3.]]
[[Image:Halo 3 singleplayer.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Work-in-progress ''Halo 3'' screenshot of single player.]]
''Halo 3'' utilizes a proprietary, in-house [[Game engine|graphics engine]], often referred to as the "''Halo 3'' Engine".<ref name="igntrailer">{{cite web |url = http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/706/706251p1.html |title = E3 2k6: Halo 3 Trailer Impressions |accessdate = 2007-06-25 |author = Kathleen Sanders |date = 2006-05-09 |format = HTML |work = IGN E3 2006 Coverage |publisher = IGN.com |quote = ...rendered in real-time on the Xbox 360 using the current version of the Halo 3 engine.}}</ref> This engine builds upon the technologies of the ''Halo 2'' Engine (and previously the ''Halo'' Engine) and is re-optimized for the architecture of Xbox 360.
As detailed on the [[Bungie Studios]] website, it will employ advanced graphics technologies such as [[High dynamic range rendering|High Dynamic Range]], global lighting, real-time reflections and real-time [[depth of field]] effect.{{Fact|date=July 2007}} Depth of field however will only be used in cutscenes and not during gameplay. Certain surfaces, including the Master Chief's visor (when visible) and the armor of a Ghost, will have real-time reflections. Most of the objects in the game will cast real-time shadows on themselves and the environment around them, including the game's plant life. ''Halo 3'' will use [[Normal mapping|normal]], [[Bump mapping|bump]], and [[parallax mapping]] to give surfaces more detail without dramatically increasing the number of polygons.
Bungie has also stated that the [[draw distance]] of the game will be in excess of {{mi to km|10}}. Sophisticated new atmospheric models are used in the game to replace the traditional [[skybox (video games)|skybox]],<ref>{{cite video | people = alextotherescue | year = 2007 | date = May 25 | title = Halo 3: Sky Testing Part 2 | url = http://youtube.com/watch?v=aFnbhQU0lcY | format = flash | publisher = Clan Hat Trick | accessdate = 2007-05-27}}</ref> allowing several layers of cloud and atmospheric cover, and even a pseudo "space" beyond that.
[[Water]] effects are also dramatically improved, and water can now reflect and refract images simultaneously. As well as being able to simulate effects such as waterfalls, water will visually flow around objects in its path and splash when players, vehicles, or other objects travel through it.
===Physics===
''Halo 3'', like ''[[Halo 2]]'', uses a version of the [[Havok (software)|Havok]] physics engine for much of its physics calculations.<ref name="cid12545">{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12545 |title = Bungie Weekly Update: 06/15/07 |accessdate = 2007-06-16 |author = Frank O'Connor (Frankie) |date = 2007-06-15 |format = HTML |publisher = Bungie.net |language = English |quote = ..and this isn’t a Havok physics issue, this is a bug with the Halo melee physics...}}</ref> <ref name="havokgames">{{cite web |url = http://www.havok.com/content/blogcategory/37/78/ |title = Havok - Upcoming Releases |accessdate = 2007-07-13 |author = Havok Inc |date = |format = HTML |publisher = Havok.com |language = English |quote = The following game titles on current and next-generation Xbox 360 and Playstation®3 platforms will be released utilizing Havok products.... Halo 3}}</ref> Although parts of the physics, like melee, are done with custom code on top of the [[Game engine#Middleware|middleware]].
A wide variety of objects are affected by physical interactions in ''Halo 3''. Crates, canisters, objective objects, dropped weapons, characters, bodies, vehicles, and some parts of the world geometry all interact with each other and the world around them in believable physical ways. Trajectories of thrown objects are also affected by the gravity lifts in the game (including the "Mancannon").
Some of the foliage in the game is physically reactive; it not only moves in the simulated wind, but actually reacts to the player's (or other creatures) presence and bullet fire, as well as explosions. Some flora in the game will also be destroyed after receiving enough damage.
===Audio===
As with all titles on the [[Xbox 360]], ''Halo 3'' will fully support [[Surround sound#5.1 Channel Surround (digital discrete: Dolby Digital, DTS, SDDS)|5.1 surround sound]] audio. In the game, there will be many more individual pieces of combat dialogue than in either of the preceding ''Halo'' titles (''[[Halo 2]]'' had over 15,000), and the AI controlling this dialogue is designed to ensure the exchanges flow naturally and convincingly. Separate recordings have been made for nearby and distant gunfire, making for a more realistic experience. Distant gunfire sounds, which may first seem like prerecorded ambient sound, may often be the result of an actual firefight happening in the distance.
[[Marty O'Donnell]] is again composing the original score. Some pieces of the game's music are produced with a much larger real orchestra than anything in the prior two games. For example, the music for the announcement trailer was recorded with a 60-piece orchestra and a 24-piece [[choir]].
Voice actors returning to reprise their roles in ''Halo 3'' include: [[Jen Taylor]] as Cortana and [[Steve Downes]] as the voice of Master Chief. Actress [[Julie Benz]] however, is not voicing Miranda Keyes for ''Halo 3''.<ref name="mirandakeyes">{{cite web |url = http://www.tvguide.com/News-Views/Interviews-Features/Article/default.aspx?posting=%7B586AE81D-35CC-4DE1-AAD8-920B33FDDDFC%7D |title = Dexter's No. 1 Gal — Julie Benz |accessdate = 2007-04-28 |author = Matt Webb Mitovich |date = 2006-12-15 |format = HTML |publisher = TVGuide.com |quote = Benz: You know what? I am actually not a part of Halo 3. }}</ref>
===Achievements===
There are 49 achievements worth 1000 points [http://www.achieve360points.com/games/halo3 Click Here to View Achievements]
==Different versions==
[[Image:Halo 3 front-1-.jpg|175px|right|thumb| ''Halo 3'' Limited Edition cover]] There will be three different versions of ''Halo 3'' for retail sale: the Standard Edition, which contains the game disc and a manual; the Collector's Edition, which contains the game disc, manual, interactive Xbox 360 bonus disc with several featurettes, and Beastarum, which is a "hard cover, bound collection of information and art covering the species, cultures and civilizations of ''Halo 3''." according to Bungie; the Legendary Edition, which contains the game disc, manual, interactive bonus disc, Beastarum, Legendary DVD containing special content exclusive to the Legendary Edition, and a scale replica of the Master Chief's Helmet as a case for the three discs.<ref name="versions">
{{cite web |url = http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12531 |title = Three Versions of Halo 3 |accessdate = 2007-06-08 |author = Frank O'Connor (Frankie) |date = 2007-06-08 |format = HTML |publisher = Bungie.net |language = English |archiveurl = http://nikon.bungie.org/bwu/index.html?item=130 |archivedate = 2007-06-09}}</ref>
{|class="wikitable" style="margin: 0.5em auto;"
!valign="right"| Version
!Standard
!Collector's
!Legendary
|-
|Price ([[United States dollar|USD]])
|$59.99
|$69.99
|$129.99
|-
|Game Disc & Manual
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|-
|Interactive Xbox 360 Disc
|style="background: #ffdddd" | No
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|-
|Beastarum
|style="background: #ffdddd" | No
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes*
|-
|Legendary DVD
|style="background: #ffdddd" | No
|style="background: #ffdddd" | No
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|-
|Master Chief Helmet Replica
|style="background: #ffdddd" | No
|style="background: #ffdddd" | No
|style="background: #ddffdd" | Yes
|-
|}
<small><center>''* Additional content on DVD''</center></small>
==Marketing==
{{main|Marketing for Halo 3}}
Various marketing techniques have been employed in promoting the release of ''Halo 3''. This has included various trailers of the game; real-time [[cinematic|cinematics]], recorded [[gameplay]] sequences, pre-rendered [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]] and even [[live action]] film. Throughout the course of development several "developer documentaries" were released, which explain the processes behind creating parts of the game. A large scale multiplayer Beta test was played on Xbox Live with many members of the public being able to take part and experience the game for themselves. Beginning in June 2007, an [[alternate reality game]] began on the internet, designed to create hype for the game while involving players in slowing revealing some background information for the game.
In addition to high profile events, Bungie often talked about the game in its Weekly Update, occasionally releasing media of the game on their site. Numerous interviews with Bungie staff have been conducted by many gaming press establishments, covering a vast range of subjects. Magazines and journals also occasionally ran stories revealing new information.
As ''Halo 3'' draws nearer to completion and release the marketing drive is set to increase, to ensure it achieves the multi-million and system-selling status that the prior two games did. Much of the advertising to date has focused on appealing to the general public, rather than just hardcore fans of the game.
==See also==
*[[Iris (game)]]
*[[Halo 2]]
*[[Microsoft Games]]
*[[Bungie]]
*[[Halo universe]]
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
;Official Sites
*[http://www.halo3.com Official site]
*[http://www.bungie.net/Projects/Halo3/default.aspx Official ''Halo 3'' site at Bungie.net]
*[http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/h/halo3/ ''Halo 3'' at Xbox.com]
;External Homepages
*[[Wikia:Halo:Halo 3|''Halo 3'' article at Halopedia]]
;News
*[http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/news/events/e32006/articles/halo3.htm ''Halo 3'' Revealed!] on Xbox.com
*[http://www.1up.com/do/minisite?cId=3154510 ''Three Weeks of Halo 3''] at [http://www.1up.com 1up.com]
*[http://www.gruntsrus.com ''Halo 3'' News and Updates]
*[http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/706/706251p1.html ''Halo 3'' Story] on IGN
*[http://www.planetxbox360.com/index.php/gamedetails/show/97 ''Halo 3'' Information] at Planet Xbox 360
*[http://download.microsoft.com/download/F/1/9/F19C4342-3F45-438A-B197-23406BF30824/halo3-screenshots.zip Image Press Kit] (''Direct download link - 102 MB - Zipfile'')
*[http://www.360-play.com/news_story.asp?news_item=25 5 Years of ''Halo'' and an update] at 360-Play.com
*[http://www.halo3site.com/pages/halo-3-2006-recap/ ''Halo 3'' 2006 Recap]
*[http://www.gamerzines.com/360zine/issue-2/halo-3-preview.html ''Halo 3'' overview]
*[http://www.bungie.net/content.aspx?link=h3betaFAQ ''Halo 3'' Public Beta FAQ]
*[http://www.xbox360achievements.org/achievements.php?gameID=274 ''Halo 3'' Achievement list]
{{col-2}}
===Videos===
;Official
''Official videos are also available on the [[Xbox Live Marketplace]]''
*[http://download.microsoft.com/download/5/b/3/5b3d8532-65bc-4bf6-b5ea-6ba0f2084d74/h3_e32006_announce_large.wmv HD announcement trailer], on Microsoft.com. (''Direct link - WMV'')
*[http://download.microsoft.com/download/F/3/3/F33EE031-FCD3-4189-AE59-1E70A72F7962/H3E3_Bnet_large_ST.wmv High Resolution Behind The Scenes] (of E3 2006 trailer) on Bungie (''Direct download link - 383 MB - WMV'')
*[http://download.microsoft.com/download/8/f/4/8f4afc7b-70cc-4765-a235-65b28308f88d/z3Halo3_Documentary_Brutes_BungieNet_360p30_51_2Mbps.wmv Et Tu Brute?] Video Documentary (''Direct Link - WMV - 360px'')
*[http://bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=e3makingof ''Halo 3'' Documentary] [[Bungie.net]] in-depth documentary of the E3 2006 teaser trailer.
*[http://download.microsoft.com/download/a/6/1/a61f31a9-e4ee-44d2-ac95-86279817fc33/Halo3_E3_TRAILER_2007_720p30_ST_6300Kbps.wmv 720p E3 2007 trailer] of Halo 3 Campaign (''WMV - [[720p]] - 92MB'') A montage of campaign clips shown at the [[E3 2007]] [[Microsoft]] Conference ([http://download.microsoft.com/download/a/6/1/a61f31a9-e4ee-44d2-ac95-86279817fc33/Halo3_E3_TRAILER_2007_360p30_ST_2Mbps.wmv Medium]) ([http://download.microsoft.com/download/a/6/1/a61f31a9-e4ee-44d2-ac95-86279817fc33/Halo3_E3_TRAILER_2007_180p30_ST_600Kbps.wmv Small])
;Other Videos
*[http://www.xboxyde.com/news_4325_en.html Three ''Halo 3'' Beta videos on Xboyxde.com]. HD, SD and streaming variants available. As well as a gallery of screen captures.
{{col-end}}
{{Halo}}
{{Bungie Studios}}
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