Halo 4 will come out this November

PUT DOWN that other shoot 'em up and get ready for the return of Master Chief, as Halo 4 will be released this November.

The game will be out on 6 November, says 343 Industries, the firm that now looks after the Xbox cash cow, and will re-unite players with Master Chief, who was missing from the last major outing.

The game is set four years after Halo 3 and our hero must "confront his destiny" and "face an ancient evil". He will also have to shoot things in the face a lot and team up with his old virtual lady friend Cortana. According to statements made by the developers, its going to be something of a new standard setting blockbuster.

"We are beginning a new saga with 'Halo 4' and embarking on a journey that will encompass the next decade of 'Halo' games and experiences," said Phil Spencer, corporate VP of Microsoft Studios.

"Millions of fans worldwide have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to step back into the boots of Master Chief, and with 'Halo 4' leading the charge, we're confident 2012 will be the most successful year in Xbox history."

Halo 3 was released five years ago and took in $170m within just 24 hours in the US. µ