Once upon a time the world expected Halo 3: ODST (originally pitched as an expansion) to hit shops at a price less than that of a 'full' game. With that now not being the case, Microsoft has stepped up to justify the cost, citing the 'scope' of the title.

"At the time of those statements (see below), the overall scope of Halo 3: ODST was not yet finalized, and since then the project has grown increasingly more ambitious. We believe this standalone experience is much more than just an expansion. Halo 3: ODST provides a new campaign from the point of view of an entirely new character.

"Combine that with three new multiplayer maps, the entirely new cooperative mode called Firefight, and the complete Halo 3 multiplayer collection on a standalone disc, we feel this is a good value and tremendous addition to the Halo franchise", a Microsoft spokesperson told Joystiq.

The price-related statements in question came from Bungie writer Joe Staten, who said "we do not view this as a $60 title". Brian Jarrard (community manager) added, "I think this is going to be a good value and a lot of content but we're not viewing this as sort of a full game release in the sense of Halo 3."

Yet, lo and behold, US retailers are listing the game at $59.99. Over here, UK retailers are showing a recommended retail price of £49.99 for the game, meaning what you'll probably pay is £39.99.

At E3, Microsoft announced further Halo loveliness - Reach.

Halo 3: ODST is due out on September 22nd.