EGM, Swedish magazine Level and the UK Official Xbox Magazine released screenshots of Halo 3 in action, featuring the Mongoose ATV in use in a CTF game. The magazine also included screenshots of three different multiplayer maps: High Ground, Valhalla, and Snowbound as well as the revelation of three new weapons. The Spiker is the new weapon of choice for the Brutes, as well as the Spike Grenade, and Spartans get a new "anti-vehicular" shoulder-mounted laser gun. They also described a new map-based element called a "Man Cannon," a launch pad that would be capable of flinging objects -- and players -- from one side of the map to the other (similar to the "jumping pad" on the far side of the map "Ascension" in Halo 2). On November 2, 2006, GameInformer has stated that GameStop and EB Games are already taking pre-orders for Halo 3 and are stating that the release date is November 1, 2007. Three versions were announced: Standard ($59.99), Collector's ($69.99) (contents still unannounced), and a special "Legendary" 4-disc edition ($99.99) featuring the game, a 10" "cat-head sized" MJOLNIR Mark VI Helmet Replica (which will act as a cover for a disc stand), documentaries and developer comments, spotlights on spin-offs; and all Halo cutscenes (1 – 3) including deleted scenes in hi-resolution as well as spin-off material such as Red Vs. Blue and This Spartan Life, and an added preview of the Halo movie, whose status is uncertain.

On November 15, 2006 it was announced that the online beta would be released to the public in Spring 2007; along with new Halo 2 maps exclusively for Xbox 360 owners.