Microsoft fixes Halo 3 beta problem

Microsoft has released a new update for the Halo 3 beta after players experienced difficulties with downloading, announcing an extension of the beta deadline.

Beta keys given away with copies of Xbox 360 title Crackdown initially failed to work for some users, but the new patch, which may take up to four hours to download, solves the problem.

Bungie has confirmed that players may see a text-display issue with the in-game user interface, where words have disappeared. To fix this, players need to reboot the console, then press the D-pad and hold the A-button until the Bungie logo appears. A dialogue box will then appear to confirm the maintenance fix.

Halo 3 is due out in the US on September 25, with the European release to follow a day later.