Recent rumors suggest that Microsoft will release several versions of the Xbox 2, including one without the hard drive to keep costs down for budget-conscious gamers. The problem with such an approach is that developers typically won't support a device if only a few people have it. To promote widespread adoption, the latest rumor has a developer's cut of Halo 2 (dubbed Halo 2.5) pre-installed on the hard drive. The expanded version of the game resolves most complaints gamers had with Halo 2 - at least in downtown Rumorville. Of course, those Halo 1.5 rumors never panned out...
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