Bungie will be throwing in some free exploration elements into the Halo equation in the upcoming Halo 3: ODST. In an interview with the Seattle Times, Bungie also revealed that they've added in some mystery-solving elements as well.

Bungie fans waiting for Master Chief and his squad to make their appearance at this year's E3 event will be sadly disappointed. Harold Ryan, President of Bungie, recently announced that he and his team won't be able to make it to the 2008 video game event. To find out why Bungie won't be showing up at E3 2008, check out our full article after the jump.

Ever since the split between Microsoft and Bungie Studios, gamers have been asking what's next for the creators of Halo 3.

In a recent interview with website Develop, Bungie Studio Manager Harold Ryan mentioned that they are currently working on a new IP, downloadable content for Halo 3, and even more Halo games.

The full story after the jump!

The wait is almost over, folks. Bungie Studios has announced that Halo 3 has finally gone gold and has been released to manufacturing. It seems everything's coming together for next month's release.

"This is a huge milestone for us and a big cause for celebration at Bungie and Microsoft Game Studios," said Harold Ryan, Studio Head at Bungie Studios. "This is the game we've always wanted to make and certainly the best game our studio has developed. We can't wait for gamers to get their hands on it on Sept. 25."

It's been three years in the making, but in less than four weeks, gamers will finally be able to experience this third installment in the hugely popular FPS franchise. Again, the game hits September 25. If you plan on getting a retail copy, make sure your schedule's clear.