Microsoft has a lot of high-end games coming to its platform, the Xbox 360, during the following fall season. Out of all of them, one of the most important is Halo 3: ODST, a new title that will stay close to Halo 3 and, hopefully, will guarantee plenty of profit for the North American company and the studio behind it, Bungie.

But, as you know, it isn't due out in stores until the middle of September, and gamers are eagerly expecting said release. For a few French gamers though, the middle of September came a bit early, as a retail store from France already had Halo 3: ODST on sale this week, with many customers buying the copies in stock.

This didn't go well with Microsoft, which has made a statement in regard to the events, saying that it will take some measures against both the store and the gamers who 'dared' to play the upcoming title on their Xbox 360 consoles.

“We are investigating a very small breach in our distribution process around the early delivery of 'Halo 3: ODST' units,” a Microsoft spokesman revealed. “We are also investigating Xbox LIVE accounts that show activity related to 'Halo 3: ODST' and will take action against those we believe have procured copies of the game illegitimately. We have nothing further to share at this time.”

The representative declined to elaborate on just what kind of measures will be taken against them, but its safe to say that an Xbox Live ban might greet them next time they start up their console. Hopefully though, as the customers actually bought the game, it will be lifted once it formally reaches all retail stores in September. Until then, the rest of us need to wait for the new Halo title.