After years of hype and on the back of Microsoft’s growing marketing campaign, Halo 3 has finally received its official release in North America – and the occasion was marked by a glitzy midnight store opening in New York.

CVG reports that a massive spotlight beamed up into the night sky, with large TVs lining the pavements as fans queued up to be the first to officially get their hands on the game

The most eager fan was 28-year-old Uche Nwanchukwu, who was first in line having claimed his spot on Sunday night. “Some people just pass by and say 'Oh, you're crazy, what are you in line for?'” he said. “Mixed reactions, mixed feelings, I don't care. I love my Halo.”

No official launch event is planned for the UK owing to council fears of overcrowding, though Microsoft says over a thousand shops across the nation will be opening at midnight.

Picture: CVG