Halo: Reach Launch Celebrations Detailed

Halo: Reach, releasing next Tuesday, is certain to be one of the biggest games releasing this year. To this end, Microsoft will be hosting the "ultimate" launch in New York City at the Best Buy theater, including a surprise musical performance.

Fans on the West Coast can attend a special event at the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame in Seattle, with members of the development team and members of 343 Industries on hand.

As expected, stores across the country will be holding midnight release events so gamers can get their hands on Bungie's last Halo title as early as possible.

Additionally, Xbox Live will be running several promotions to celebrate the launch, detailed thusly:

Microsoft will unleash a dizzying array of "Halo" activities on Xbox LIVE from Sept. 14 through Sept. 20th, including new Avatar gear, exciting content, spectacular prizes and a chance to play with the game's developers. As a special bonus, all fans who jump online will receive the "Halo: Reach" Invasion Week theme for free.

Invasion Week Activities & Programs:
• Connect to Xbox LIVE and receive a free "Halo: Reach" Invasion Week theme

• Game with Developer: Bungie will play with fans on Thursday, 16th from 5PM-7PM ET in the US, and Friday the 17th 8PM-10PM BST in the UK.

• Play & Win: Play "Halo: Reach" any time during Invasion Week and you will be entered to win tickets to the upcoming UFC 122 Fight (US Only)

• Community Events: Themed nights hosted by the community team to play "Halo: Reach," including "Co-op Night," "Xbox All Nighter" and "Community Playdate"