Halo: Reach Launch Festivities Detailed

Microsoft announced a slew of events to trumpet the launch of Halo: Reach, including a web series spin-off from Chuck, a huge party at a Best Buy, and free stuff on Xbox Live.

First, Microsoft will host a “marquee event” at Best Buy Theater in Times Square, New York City, where attendees will get to play Halo: Reach before its release, win prizes, meet Halo developers, and enjoy a “surprise musical performance,” which may mean they haven’t booked it yet.

West coast gamers can attend the launch event at Experience Music Project | Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame in Seattle, Washington. Here players will also be able to play Reach, compete for prizes, and meet some of the game’s developers. In addition to these parties, thousands of retailers are expected to hold midnight launch events, so check with your local store to see if they’re participating.

Aside from crazy partying, Warner Brothers is producing a five webisodes featuring Chuck characters Jeff and Lester (Jeffster) on a quest for a copy of the game. The first episode is already available here, and will be up on Xbox Live shortly.

Live in the American Midwest? Don’t have a car? Does the out-of-doors frighten you? Microsoft still has you covered with Invasion Week on Xbox Live, featuring the following goodies:

-Connect to Xbox LIVE and receive a free “Halo: Reach” Invasion Week theme

-Game with Developer: Bungie will play with fans on Thursday, 16th from 5PM-7PM ET in the US, and Friday the 17th 8PM-10PM BST in the UK.

-Play & Win: Play “Halo: Reach” any time during Invasion Week and you will be entered to win tickets to the upcoming UFC 122 Fight

-Community Events: Themed nights hosted by the community team to play “Halo: Reach,” including  “Co-op Night,” “Xbox All Nighter” and “Community Playdate”

Now then, where’s our Halo Mountain Dew?