Microsoft announces release date for the highly anticipated Halo 3 multiplayer first person shooter for the Xbox 360 and it is earlier than expected.

Release date for Halo 3 was anticipated to be in November. Microsoft drops the bomb now with a release date of Halo 3 already on September 25th. Europe will get Halo 3 one day later on September 26th.
"Halo 3 is much more than a video game release—it's the biggest entertainment event of the year," said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business. "On September 25, we intend to deliver a finale that will go down in entertainment history and leave people around the world with an experience that will be shared and enjoyed for years to come."

Bungie Studios is launching the public beta test of Halo 3 today (see game video footage). Apparently you still can get into the Halo 3 beta by purchasing the Xbox 360-exclusive title Crackdown, which was launched in February. The specially marked copies of Crackdown acts as a key to participate in the beta.
Via the xbox site.

Halo 3 is available for pre-order in different packages.
Halo 3 Legendary Edition - hard to find
Halo 3 Limited Edition
Halo 3 Standard Edition

Try also Wal-mart or Gamestop for Halo 3 pre-orders.