Halo’s jump into the real-time strategy genre has been given a confirmed release date. Halo Wars will be released on March 3, 2009 in North America. Europe will look for a February 26, 2009 release along with Asian territories, the Middle East and Africa. Don’t feel too bad North Americans, Ensemble Studios has special treats for those of us who pre-order Halo Wars like good little drones.

First off we’ll get an exclusive Warthog with flame decals with the regular version of the game. The limited edition buyers will receive a special in-game Honor Guard Wraith, a graphic novel, six Leader cards and a Spirit of Fire patch. Oh, and early access to the Halo 3 Mythic Map Pack is being thrown in too. The limited edition will cost $79.99.