The latest installment in the critically-acclaimed Halo series is still almost two weeks away from release, but 343 Industries is already giving anxious fans some information on upcoming multiplayer map packs. Between December of this year and April of 2013, Halo 4 will receive three map packs, each containing three unique maps. The official press release gave the following details:

Crimson Map Pack (December Release Time-frame)

  • Maps: Wreckage, Harvest, Shatter
  • Description: Witness the chaos of a clash of civilizations in Wreckage, with its blend of claustrophobic spaces and dangerous exposures and venture into the human colony environs of Harvest, and explore a human foray on an alien moon in Shatter.

Majestic Map Pack (February Release Time-frame)

  • Maps: Landfall, Monolith, Skyline
  • Description: Landfall’s emphasis is on infantry battles against a glittering ocean on a distant world, while Monolith exposes you to the naked vacuum of space – and the firepower of opposing teams, and Skyline’s distinctly industrial feel provides new challenges in somewhat familiar, but occasionally confined spaces.

Castle Map Pack (April Release Time-frame)

  • Maps: Daybreak, Outcast, Perdition
  • Description: Daybreak is set in a military facility against the backdrop of an idyllic mountain range, while Outcast plunges you into the warrens, canyons and arches of an alien edifice, and Perdition takes players into the heart of an urban sprawl, with tactical speed and situational awareness its key features.

Each DLC pack will cost about $10, or 800 Microsoft Points, but gamers who are already prepared to buy all three can take advantage of the War Games Map Pass. The season pass saves players 15%, costing only 2,000 Microsoft points ($24.99), and gives players access to all three packs as soon as they are available. To sweeten the deal, 343 Industries has stated that those who purchase the Map Pass will receive a unique in-game emblem, and two new helmets for customization.

Look for Halo 4 on November 6, 2012. See you on the battlefield.