Two “new” downloadable Halo 2 maps for Xbox and Xbox 360 on April 17

Microsoft Game Studios and Bungie today revealed the last two Halo 2 maps – Tombstone and Desolation. They’re remakes of Halo: Combat Evolved’s multiplayer maps Hang ‘Em High and Derelict. The maps will be available as premium downloadable content at a price of $4 for Xbox and Xbox 360 on April 17, 2007. Both of the maps will be available through the Halo 2 in-game content downloader.

Fans of the original Halo have long requested the addition of some of their favorite maps to Halo 2’s multiplayer. When Bungie was asked “why make maps for Halo 2, when Halo 3 is just around the corner?” they answered: “Well, because we love Halo 2 and we love our fans. They’ve continued to play Halo 2 solidly for three years [and over 800 million hours on Xbox Live], in vast numbers, and we owe them it. Not enough to give it away for free, but Max has to buy snacks for his team, after all.” For a full map breakdown go to Bungie.

* Hang ‘Em High map description: Arguably the most popular Halo multiplayer map, it has been reimagined for “Halo 2″ as Tombstone, with all-new graphics, features and a few hidden surprises. Now fans will enjoy the dangerous catwalks and trenches that made this the most requested “Halo” multiplayer map ever, with a modernized “Halo 2″ flavor.

* Desolation map description: A symmetrical, Deathmatch-oriented map and a beautiful remake of the original Derelict. With new graphics and effects and a massive gameplay overhaul, the old favorite is now faster-paced & more balanced than ever for Halo 2 combat.

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