April 28, 2006 - With Microsoft, the rumors are always true. The next iteration in Bungie Studios' Halo series will appear at E3 2006 in video form at its Tuesday, May 9 news conference, IGN learned today from independent sources who recently spoke with Microsoft executives.
The video is allegedly two minutes long, although its contents weren't divulged. We're guessing a wild breathtaking battle on Earth. Knowing Microsoft, the publisher will want to show all real, in-game engine footage to counter Sony's fantastical CG videos from E3 2005. When Microsoft was contacted, the company issued its standard reply, "We don't comment on speculation and rumors."
E3 is where console manufacturers, publishers, and developers lay down their best hand for hopes of creating buzz and interest leading into the fall season. And E3 2006 is perhaps one of the most crucial for Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo, as each stakes their plot in the next-generation landscape.
Diehard Halo fans shouldn't be too surprised. Bungie is notorious for taking its time, and the game is not likely to come out until 2007. Microsoft's most valuable franchise has been out of the limelight since last year's Map Pack, a set of additional multiplayer maps for 2004's Halo 2. Microsoft has edged away from talking about the next Halo all year long, except to acknowledge Founder Bill Gates' cautionary statements to Sony, claiming that when Sony readies PS3, Halo 3 will launch day and date with it. Microsoft since retracted the statement, claiming Halo 3 will be ready when Bungie is finished.
Recently, however, the company has started to roll up its proverbial Halo sleeves again, acknowledging Halo 3's existence. Microsoft Game Studios' General Manager Shane Kim, in a conversation with New Zealand Website Stuff.co.nz, said:
"You mean the mythical Halo 3? I mean, it's silly to deny its existence when the chairman of MS (Bill Gates) announced it, but I have nothing to announce now, but expect there to be a significant announcement at E3."
You heard it. Expect first details, footage, and wild Halo fanboy Love come E3.
