Microsoft Brings The Banhammer Down On Halo: Reach Pirates (Literally!)
Apparently leaked copies of Halo: Reach were accessible via torrent sites by an unknown breach according to Microsoft. Microsoft also states that they are watching the leak extremely carefully and they will be bringing the Banhammer down on anyone caught playing the game prior to its release next month.
Sometimes when a juggernaut title emerges on the scene this type of situation is actually caught, though it happens quite a lot. Microsoft happened to be paying attention and is now investigating the leak thoroughly. A representative from the company stated earlier that “We are aware that an unauthorized copy of Halo: Reach has leaked. We are aggressively investigating the matter.” The representative had no further details at this time.
Situations like these ruin it for loyal fans and gamers alike out there in the rest of the world. Patience is a virtue, just not one that many people have. The game is set to release on September 14th (in case you’ve been on another planet and don’t know), in just about three weeks or so. There hasn’t been any word from Bungie in the matter, but I would be expecting a statement in the next couple of days.
Microsoft did release this statement to the public:
“We are aggressively pursuing the violators. Microsoft’s commitment to combat piracy and support safer and more secure gameplay for the 25 million members of the Xbox LIVE community remains a top priority. All consumers should know that piracy is illegal and modifying their Xbox 360 console violates the Xbox LIVE terms of use, will void their warranty and result in a ban from Xbox LIVE.”
So is pirating a game worth losing your Xbox Live subscription for good? I personally don’t think so. For companies like Bungie who have put their heart and soul into a title as big as this, it is a real kick to the nads. My advice for you all is to just sit and wait. Patience will be rewarded, and plus you won’t lose your subscription to Xbox Live in the process.
