econd “Halo 3” Mythic Map Pack Drops onto Xbox LIVE on Feb. 2, 2010

“Halo” fans, make ready your battle rifles and prepare to step into an expanded fight on Xbox LIVE. Mythic 2 Map Pack, a Game Add-on developed by Bungie for “Halo 3” consisting of three multiplayer maps available previously only on the “Halo 3: ODST” multiplayer disc, is set to arrive on Xbox LIVE on Feb. 2, 2010.

The release of the Mythic 2 Map Pack brings the total number of “Halo 3” multiplayer maps to 24. The Game Add-on includes three action-packed maps: Heretic, Citadel and Longshore.

Heretic brings players to familiar ground as the “Halo 2” arena Midship returns in “Halo 3.” The stark interior of the Pious Inquisitor might appear austere on first glance, but Heretic’s symmetrical spaces require players to execute complex strategies in order to outplay their opponents.

Citadel may be a long abandoned Forerunner stronghold, but its small, symmetrical confines are far from secure. Two opposing bases offer little safety for players looking for solace. Instead, Citadel forces small squads to stay in constant communication, keep their heads on a swivel, and be prepared to adjust combat tactics in close quarters.

Longshore lacks the commercial ships that once made it a lucrative port for Old Mombasa, but it still bustles with activity. Designed for large-scale combat and well-suited for smaller affairs, Longshore’s multitude of industrial buildings, elevated walks, and open inlets conspire to create a complex battleground tailored for multiple combat scenarios.

Mythic 2 Map Pack will be available on Xbox LIVE for 800 Microsoft Points. Mythic Map Pack 1 and 2 are also included in “Halo 3: ODST,” which includes the complete “Halo 3” multiplayer map collection, an all-new campaign and the incredibly popular cooperative experience, Firefight. “Halo 3: ODST” will act as a key to the upcoming “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta which goes live later this spring.

Additionally, beginning today, “Halo” fans can contribute to Bungie’s relief efforts for Haiti by participating in the “Be a Hero” campaign on Xbox LIVE. For every 1,000 people that wear a red heart emblem and play “Halo 3” or “Halo 3: ODST” online today or tomorrow, Bungie will donate $100 to Red Cross, up to $77,000. To find out more about the “Be a Hero” campaign, visit Bungie at http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BeAHero.