Yes, it's true. Today is not the day. You can swing by your local EBGames for your pre-order, but it won't be there for another couple weeks. So, you know, if after all that time they had to move it out two more weeks, they've got ALL the bugs out. Heheh.

Halo 2 has been an outstanding success for Microsoft... nearly single-handedly saving the XBox from becoming an "also-ran" game console. Microsoft is trying to get that same console saving effect for its Vista OS by releasing Halo 2 for Vista - with special features not available on the other platforms. Will it work?  Maybe...

Some of the key features that are expected for this version are listed below (from the MicroSoft Press Release). Some like map editing, are only available on the Vista version.

• Epic narrative. The saga continues with “Halo 2,” the international award-winning sequel to the highly successful and critically acclaimed “Halo: Combat Evolved.” In this sequel, the battle comes to Earth, and Master Chief, a genetically enhanced super soldier, is the only thing standing between the relentless alien Covenant and the destruction of all humankind.

• Exciting single-player gameplay. Experience firsthand the epic struggle between Master Chief and the Covenant armada. Brandish dual-wield weapons and Covenant arms, while piloting human and non-human vehicles and aircraft to battle intelligent AI alien enemies.

 
• Unmatched online gaming. “Halo 2” for Windows Vista will tap into the power of Games for Windows — LIVE to deliver online matchmaking for its Gold account members. The service will enable Windows Vista gamers around the globe to connect via their PCs and play in an innovative and competitive online forum.

• New multiplayer Map Editor. The game will also feature the all-new Map Editor, guaranteeing new fan-generated content in the future. The “Halo 2” community will be able to tap their endless creative potential to develop an unlimited number of user-created multiplayer levels.

• Never-before-seen content. Inspired by their favorite portions of the original “Halo 2” for the Xbox, Hired Gun has included two new multiplayer maps, District and Uplift, which can only be found on “Halo 2” for Windows Vista.

• Complete community freedom. “Halo 2” for Windows Vista offers gamers the freedom to host their own dedicated servers for maximum multiplayer action.

• Superior presentation and cinematic excellence. Bring the vast, imaginative world of “Halo 2” to life on the Windows Vista platform through higher-resolution textures and improved lighting effects. Experience the unmatched cinematic quality of “Halo 2” through the power of Windows Vista.

• Technological simplicity. Until now, Windows gamers had to install each game completely to their hard drive before playing, taking more than an hour in some cases. “Halo 2” for Windows Vista utilizes new Tray and Play technology, allowing gamers to put in the game disc and be on the battlefield in minutes. The game loads as you play – just like on the Xbox 360.

• Unprecedented pedigree. The “Halo” franchise is one of the best-selling, most monumental entertainment experiences in history with more than 14.7 million units sold worldwide, more than 18 game-of-the-year awards, and 800 million hours and 500 million matches logged over Xbox LIVE®. “Halo 2” was also one of the most successful entertainment launches of all time — including books, films, graphic novels, games and music. “Halo 2” for Windows Vista brings this incredible experience to Windows Vista gamers everywhere.