This post is for the brain-dead and hermits among us.

Just in case you missed it, Halo 2 is coming out this week on Tuesday Noveber 9th. Thousands of stores are opening at midnight+1 to sell the game, so find the stores closest to you, choose one, and go get in line.

Meanwhile, here are a few new and nifty items to tide you over until Tuesday at 12:01 am:

• Halo 2 skin for Windows Media Player
• First cut from the Halo 2 soundtrack (“Blow me Away” by Breaking Benjamin)
• The Xbox.com Halo 2 web site&amp;nbsp;(lots of cool stuff)<BR>
• Bungie's Halo 2&amp;nbsp;web site
• Xbox TV - trailers, interviews, other videos (very good documentary, too)

So - is anyone actually taking vacation from work to beat the game? Heh.

Here is what Microsoft says you'll need - go to the xbox.com readiness guide page for more details...

The Essentials

• A copy of the most anticipated game of 2004: Halo® 2. (Obviously!)
• An active subscription to Xbox Live™.
• An Xbox®-compatible router.
• A Friends List full of potential opponents and teammates.
• A linked Gamertag.
• A TV and sound system to take in the whole experience. (HDTV and Surround Sound optional, but recommended.)
• At least one day completely set aside for nothin’ but gaming bliss.
• Supplies (food, refreshments, toilet paper, etc.).

Who's planning on getting in line and buying their copy at midnight? I'm game if someone else is going along, but I won't be skipping work, I'm not that hard-core, heh.