Microsoft is about to milk every last penny from "Halo" fans this fall. Bungie Studios' "Halo 3" will come in three versions when it's released. In addition to the standard, bare-bones $60 game, Microsoft will release a Limited Edition version like they did with "Gears of War." The "Halo 3 Limited Edition" game will come in a metal collector's case. Also included is a bonus disk with making-of content and a "Halo" fiction and art book.

But where the true fans will fork over serious dough is the "Halo 3 Legendary Edition," which will cost $130 and come in limited quantities. This collection (picture shown) will come in a Spartan helmet case that collectors can display in their game room. Inside the helmet are two bonus disks that will provide exclusive videos on the making of the game. There's also a high definition making-of documentary included. An audio-visual calibration tool will also be included, allowing Xbox 360 owners to get their most out of their home theater experience. The second disk will include remastered cinematic content from the first two "Halo" games, as well as commentaries to catch people up on the story. Aso included is Machinima from the artists who made "Red vs. Blue" and "This Spartan Life." Rounding out the collection is exclusive storyboard art from artist Lee Wilson.

The one thing Microsoft has not announced is a date, but EBGames.com has all versions of "Halo 3" shipping on November 1. While that date's likely not correct, the month probably is. November and December account for roughly half of videogame sales for the year and a November launch, like last year's "Gears of War," would make sense for "Halo 3."

Microsoft has a lot riding on "Halo," a game franchise that has sold 14.7 million copies globally. The first two Xbox games helped sell that system and gamers have been waiting to see Master Chief on Xbox 360. I expect this game to break records at retail, outselling even "Gears of War," and also helping Microsoft sell more hardware.