Massive Halo 2 update – Nope!

So, reading the latest issue of low-readership ultra-tabloid shelf-filler Xbox World, one could be mistaken for thinking that the next issue will contain some massive announcement regarding Halo 2, perhaps detailing additional content or something equally exciting.

The magazine’s somewhat disingenuous back page reads, “Halo 2: Didn’t think there was more? Think again!” in a large banner across some lovely Master Chief artwork. Underneath it reads, “Plus! If all goes to plan, a massive world exclusive first look next month.”

Get ready forum dwellers, here’s the skinny. In the next Xbox World there will be, and get this, a multiplayer guide booklet to Halo 2. Oh yeah baby. And the first look that the magazine may or may not get is the new Medal of Honor title.

Interesting to watch, the games media sector. As online readership and advertising spends skyrocket, magazine sales are flagging. And although print publications are so often willing to denigrate online journalism, this year alone illustrates that magazines are willing to fudge scores time and time again and constantly lie to their readerships. Of course, the Xbox World back page isn’t a lie. It could be argued however, that it is intentionally misleading, aimed at securing a repeat purchase.

Sell your magazine collections! It is, as they say, all over.