The Silver console will be based on the new Slim Xbox 360 design and have Halo themed graphics. In addition to a copy of the regular edition game it will also include 2 Silver controllers with graphics matching the console, a 250GB hard drive, Component Video cables, a headset and all the built in features you’d expect from a Slim 360 (such as Wi-Fi).

The console will go on sale September 14 for $399 currently only announced for the US but if past Halo consoles are any indication it will be available everywhere. Also if past LE console releases are any indication of how this one will sell, you’d be advised to buy it on release if you’re at all interested in owning one.

Slated to ship on June 30th at the same price as the regular edition: $59.99.  That’s because this LE is a “First Run” release, All currently pre-ordered copies have been automatically upgraded to the LE and once the initial quantity is gone only regular editions will be made.

Also those who pre-order though gamestop.com (online store only) will receive a 32 page art book in addition to the game.

I tried something a little different with the photogaphy this time, I don’t know if I like it or my old technique better. Either way if you have an opinion on it let me know.

The LE is slated to include the following:

• Three New “Halo 3” Multiplayer Maps – Be one of the first to experience the Mythic Map Pack* which includes three new maps, “Assembly,” “Orbital” and “Sandbox”
• Halo Wars: Genesis – a beautiful graphic novel by Phil Noto chronicling the first military campaign against the Covenant. The novel centers around the Sprit of Fire on a mission to discover why the Covenant are so interested in the world of Harvest
• Unique In-game Vehicle – “Honor Guard” Wraith
• Six Leader Cards – Leaders possess elite skills which can turn the tides of battle
• Spirit of Fire Patch – Start the journey as an official Spirit of Fire crew member

Also those who pre-order Halo Wars through Amazon.com will receive (via email) a marketplace code to download a special in-game Warthog vehicle with Flame decals.

GAME.co.uk has had a Limited Collector’s Edition of Halo Wars listed for the UK region for some time now. No word on what is included in that package but if past Microsoft Game Studio releases are any indication it will be nearly identical to the North American Release.

Transformers Autobots and Decepticons:

Dragon Ball Z:

Battle Star Galactica:
This one is rather interesting since it shows off the ability for SteelBooks to hold as many as 6 discs.

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots Limited Edition Blu-Ray Disc:
I’m not entirely sure which (if any) region this case was intended for but it is unlike the Limited edition bonus disc packaging I’ve seen for the US, UK, and European version of the MGS4 LE. One thing is for sure though, it’s dead sexy.

So what do you get for your $25? The Limited Edition comes in a metal tin, and includes a bonus Blu-Ray disc, with two making of documentaries, the first few chapters of the Metal Gear Solid Graphic novel, and the game’s Soundtrack. These are all standard fare items for a Limited Edition, meaning that the premium is mostly due to the fan fare surrounding the game more than anything else.

Those who pre-order the Limited edition will also receive an artbook, which might make the LE price pill a bit easier to swallow. However in a proverbial kick to the nuts Those who pre-order the regular edition will receive the same bonus disc that is included with the LE.

Full Details can be found on the official Gears of War 2 webpage.

While not specifically mentioned in the announcement the webpage provided placeholder artwork as well as pricing data for a Limited Edition of the game. Gamestop and Amazon.com are both taking preorders for the Limited Edition at $69.99 (USD).

The Limited Collector’s Edition of the first Gears of War ended up being a difficult item to find, even on release day. I would highly recommend getting your pre-orders in if you’re interested in the Limited Edition of Gears of War 2.

While Condemned 2: Bloodshot wont be coming in any special trim (shame really) Gamestop’s pre-order bonus is a “Limited Edition Multiplayer Handbook”. This handbook is limited in the same way fun-sized candy bars are actually fun. Regardless, the book features nice glossy print and some game art accompanying the “strategy”; it gives me something interesting to read about the game while I wait for it’s release. Far be it from me to look a gift horse in the mouth.

I was actually quite surprised with what I got for Turning Point: Fall of Liberty. A large sealed envelope with the games name on it. I liked the idea of the envelope, like a top-secret document of sorts. Though it’s presentation was rather cheesy, the contents of the envelope impressed me immensely. Inside was a “welcome to the resistance” letter, a letter sized lithography with some game art on it, five high quality post cards with some really nice game art, a large fold out two sided poster with an alternative history timeline explaining the games back story on one side and some more game art on the other, a bonus DVD with a behind the scenes/making of documentary, and a card with a code on it that will presumably unlock some bonus game content. I was really quite impressed considering that all of this was essentially free just for agreeing to purchase the game. The game is a Collector’s Edition too, and one that will only cost and extra $5 over the retail price of the regular edition. The game seems interesting enough but I’m curious if the bonus content with the game will match that of the pre-order pack.

I think the pre-order pack for Turning Point does a lot to really bring you into the game’s world. If this is a game you’re thinking about buying you owe it to yourself to pre-order it and get one of these packages, it’s well worth it.