Microsoft has been claiming it’s the most anticipated videogame of all time but now they have some statistics to back it up. With over 1 million pre-orders now logged, Halo 3 is officially the fastest pre-selling videogame in history.

"What we've experienced is nothing short of phenomenal," said Bob McKenzie, senior vice president of merchandising at GameStop. "Halo 3 has eclipsed many previous records and will prove to be one of the must-have items of 2007."

The game will be released in three special editions including the expensive ($130!) but desirable Legendary Edition that includes a replica Master Chief helmet, something Microsoft expects to sell out ahead of the game’s launch in September.

Many other big name brands are also supporting the game’s launch with merchandise such as a Halo 3-branded soft drink called Mountain Dew Game Fuel appearing on August 13. Meanwhile 7-Eleven stores are promoting the game’s release by offering three branded Slurpee Cups as well as offering the chance for one lucky punter to win a minor role as a voice-actor in Ensemble Studios’ Halo Wars.