Late Night Consoling

Earlier in the day, EBgames put up a listing for the Halo 2 Expansion Pack, a $19.99 add-on for the Xbox's most popular game. The description read, "The Halo 2 Multiplayer Map Pack is a collection of nine multiplayer maps, as well as non-playable video content (a cinematic and a mini-documentary). Delivered on a standard Xbox DVD disc, the multiplayer content can be used by gamers on Xbox Live as well as those who play multiplayer via System Link or via Split-screen (on one Xbox)." EBgames listed its release as May 25. Bungie is expected to make an official announcement on Friday.

A new rumor has hit the web claiming that the next Soul Calibur will be exclusive to the PlayStation 2. The source is apparently GamePro magazine, where they have a mini-preview that basically states just that. A new feature to the series will be a create-a-character mode, where you can select sex, weapon, and even occupation. The article slated it for a fall release.

The multi-console hit, Sonic Heroes, is now considered a platinum title, a greatest hit, and a fine choice amongst players. The game will be repackaged and sold at $19.99 for the PS2, Xbox, and GameCube. "The tremendous retail success of Sonic Heroes across all platforms makes it clear that everyone's favorite hedgehog is still at the top of his game," said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Entertainment Marketing, SEGA of America, Inc. "And this value-priced re-issue is just the beginning; Sonic has a handful of other big surprises in store for gamers throughout 2005."

Namco Hometek announced that Pac-Man will have another console game with the second sequel to Pac-Man World. Pac-Man is on a quest to prevent the Spectral World from collapsing into the real world. Players can also control Pinky and Clyde. Pac-Man World 3 will release for the PS2, Xbox, GCN, PSP, and PC in the fall.

1UP reprints an EGM interview with Yuji Naka. X-Play tells us whose corner they're in for this handheld boxing match.