In North America anyways...I think the UK is getting it on Nov 2. Once again Chapters is late getting something shipped in on time, have no fucking clue how long I'll have to wait to get a copy. I've been waiting for this to come out since I heard about it earlier this year. I recently saw the breakdown of sections the book deals with and I had a major geekism! Supposdely the book covers every facet of the Halo verse from Halo to Halo Wars and OSDT (whatever it's called) as well as the books. Anyone have a copy of it yet and if so what do you think? It's 352 pages.
It's kind of silly to release a Halo Encyclopedia now when there is one more Halo game being made by Bungie.
It is supposed to contain information that includes Halo Reach...and has spoilers for future Halo projects down the line.
it does weapon specs for all weapons, and I only thumbed through it, so I don't know about cross-sections, but it does have concept and other ship art
There are no cross sections for ships or vessels but does have pretty indepth profiles on weapons, ships, and other technology. I got it. I'm a little disappointed with the layout of the book but as far as just plain information provided, it's massive. It pretty much covers every single known Halo media from the games to the books to the comics up to ODST. Very cool profiles, a two or three page profile on the Master Chief alone I believe...really cool book. I reccomend it. I just wish the layout was better.
I don't really see the point in reference materials like this or Star Wars' Essential Guides when comprehensive websites like Halopedia (or Wookieepedia for Star Wars) exist and usually are more up to date.
I remembered as a kid I would read the ST Encyclopedia cover to cover. For me it is just having it in a nice paper format lying on my bed and just reliving a great memory of my childhood.
The Essential Guides for Star Wars aren't just rehashes of old canon; they often add new info or retcons too.
Yeah, but Wookieepedia has the same information along with way more than any other single Essential Guide. Plus it's free and constantly being updated with every new material released.
Very good point, but for me there's an enormous satisfaction that comes from perusing the bound, professionally-produced official reference book, laden with gorgeous artwork - it adds something to the experience that the various fan wikis just can't replicate. And the Halo book really is beautifully done. And it's reasonably priced as well - Amazon had it for about $22 bucks yesterday.