The beta will consist of three maps--Snowbound, High Ground and Valhalla--which demonstrate Halo 3's mix of large- and medium-scale environments. These maps will also give players their first chance to experience several of the new entries in Halo 3's arsenal, including the fast but weaponless Mongoose vehicle, the all-destroying Spartan Laser (pictured left), and the painful-sounding Spike Grenades.

Of all the additions, most significant is the new ability to deploy items such as the Bubble Shield. As seen in the commercial released last fall, this device temporarily protects the player from attacks. Another item, the Trip Mine, finally provides players a way to defend themselves against oncoming vehicles.

In conjunction with today's announcement, Bungie and Microsoft released a new Halo 3 video documentary, titled "Is Quisnam Protero Damno!", which can be downloaded from FileShack or Xbox Live Marketplace. The seven minute video provides players with a look at the design philosophies behind Halo 3 multiplayer, and also details the Bubble Shield, Trip Mine, and the option to record in-game events for later viewing and smack talk.

The final version of Halo 3 on Xbox 360 is set to be released this fall.