'Halo 3' launch marred by scratched discs

Right smack in the middle of Microsoft's most important Xbox 360 game launch of the year, some 'Halo 3' discs have been scratched before their unlucky owners ever got a chance to play them.

Not all of the scratches resulted in unplayable discs, but the problem is systemic enough that Microsoft is waiving its usual US$20 replacement disc fee so that owners can get new ones shipped to them free.

The game is available in three possible packages: 'Halo 3' for $59.99, 'Halo 3 Limited Edition' for $69.99, and 'Halo 3 Legendary Edition' for $129.99. The problem only affects the Limited Edition, which comes in a special metal case that doesn't always secure the disc correctly, allowing it to shift around inside the case during shipping.

Read the full article here.