Microsoft and today confirmed that 2 is in as we speak for the Xbox, and that it will be released come the end of 2003. Here’s the press release spiel for you to indulge in:

Halo 2, a sci-fi action/first-person game, is a full sequel to the best-selling original and will continue the story of the Master Chief, a genetically enhanced supersoldier who is the only man that has successfully defied the Covenant, a coalition of alien races on a murderous march toward Earth. Halo 2 surpasses its predecessor both in graphical beauty and combat intensity. The Master Chief and his marine allies return to battle the full complement of Covenant forces, as well as new enemies who have not yet revealed themselves. Halo 2 also expands the Master Chief's already substantial arsenal with powerful new weapons, many pried from the twitching claws of defeated enemies, as well as more than twice as many drivable vehicles for exploring vast landscapes or speeding into battle. In addition to its epic single-player campaign, Halo 2 will be playable through Live.

So there you have it. Project Gotham 2 was also confirmed in the same release, and is slated for an early 2004 release. "There's only one thing better than announcing a sequel to a million-seller," gushed Ed Fries, vice president of Xbox Game Content at Game Studios. "And that's announcing sequels to two 1-million-unit-selling games. Our 'Halo' and 'Project Gotham Racing' franchises have redefined the shooter and racing categories around the world with innovation, great gameplay and pure fun. 'Halo 2' and 'Project Gotham Racing 2' will build on these legacies with awesome new features and the thrill of playing anyone anywhere using Xbox Live."

More news on this sizeable announcement as we get it.

By Luke Guttridge