Gamepro.com announced recently that Halo 3 Recon is not just an expansion but a stand alone game. They had this to say about it:
"Halo 3: Recon might still technically be an expansion, but looming questions of price and distribution type were further complicated today with a statement from Microsoft.
"This new chapter in the Halo saga lets you experience events leading up to the epic story told in Halo 3 through the eyes of a new hero in the Halo universe," the publisher announced on its website. "The stand-alone expansion, set to release in fall 2009, extends the award-winning Halo 3 experience with hours of new campaign excursions and multiplayer gameplay."
And by "stand-alone," the company seems to imply a full retail release, as depicted by the "for display only" box art also released today. Price has yet to be announced, but one might expect $40 on the generous side and $60 for standard fair.
Whatever the case, here are some additional game details provided by Microsoft.
The new chapter in the Halo universe includes the following:
All-new campaign content: The Halo 3: Recon campaign is an intriguing side story that takes place during the terrifying events leading up to the Master Chiefs return to New Mombasa in Halo 3. Experience the fate of Earth from the brand-new perspective of a special forces ODST (Orbital Drop Shock Trooper), adding a unique outlook and new gameplay elements to the events that unfold in the trilogys finale. While the feel of this new chapter greatly resembles that of previous Halo experiences, Halo 3: Recon will require you to employ more elements of stealth and cunning than ever before.
Prepare to drop: Known for their courage, valor and, at times, insanity, ODSTs are among the fiercest UNSC soldiers, priding themselves on being the first unit deployed into hostile situations. While not as large or supernaturally gifted as their Spartan comrades, these "Hell Jumpers" more than compensate with their ferocious attitudes and unwavering nerve.
Expanded multiplayer collection: No Halo experience would be complete without groundbreaking multiplayer content, and Halo 3: Recon gives fans more of what they love. With exclusive new maps and expanded Forge options, Xbox LIVE Gold members will find more multiplayer content than ever before with Halo 3: Recon.
Ever-growing community options: Enjoy all the great Halo 3 technological innovations, including Saved Films, screenshots, Campaign Scoring, and four-player co-op. All of the new multiplayer maps fully support the Forge editor, offering endless gameplay customization possibilities."
