Retail has noted a surge of interest in free-roaming action game Crackdown, since the announcement that the game disc will include a beta key to the multiplayer testing of Bungie's highly-anticipated shooter Halo 3.
Specialist chain GAME has told GamesIndustry.biz that pre-orders for Crackdown have risen by 25 per cent since Microsoft unveiled the initiative.
"Halo 3 is one of the most highly anticipated Xbox 360 titles for 2007 and our customers are hungry to get hold of it," commented Alex Croft, MD of GAME Group's online business.
"Halo 3 beta is a great way for gamers to actually influence the making of the game and will ensure the production of a truly amazing game," he added.
Crackdown, from developer Realtime Worlds, is due for release February 23 in Europe. Copies of the game which include the Halo 3 beta key will be housed in specially marked packaging.