Microsoft is preparing Halo 3-sized marketing campaign for GTA IV

Microsoft Europe is preparing a giant marketing push for GTA IV, the company confirmed this morning, with a spend on a par to Halo 3's advertising budget last year.

"We can’t wait for the game on Xbox 360, and with recent reports stating consumers should go for the 360 version over the PS3 and talk of the GTA launch being 'the biggest entertainment launch of all time', we’re complimenting it with a launch campaign along the same lines as Halo 3 last year," Steve McGill, head of gaming and entertainment, Xbox UK said in a statement.

"Microsoft sees GTA IV as a fantastic title to showcase how great Xbox 360 is, what with it’s amazing graphics and gaming experience, coupled with playing with your friends on Xbox Live, Achievements and of course the exclusive extra episodic content for GTA IV that will be downloadable this autumn and will only be available on Xbox 360."

Media overload starts this Friday this week so batten down the hatches, close the curtains and lock the front door - the MS hype train is coming to an orifice near you.

By Mike Bowden