Hey, you might not have heard, but Gears of War 2 is kind of a big deal. So big, in fact, that 20,000 US stores are planning to open up for the game's midnight launch. Those braving the launch will be rewarded with a limited edition in-game item, and the development team will be stalking Xbox Live during the title's opening weekend.

Microsoft has announced that pre-orders for the blockbuster shooting game have surpassed those of the original, which is hardly surprising. This is potentially the Xbox 360's biggest release of the year, so naturally expectations are high. 

A free map pack, along with the obligatory 48 hours of free Xbox Live Gold, will also be available to everybody buying the game.

Personally, I can't wait. I was a big fan of the original and Gears of War 2 is looking like more of the same, only a lot bigger. That's enough for me. Are you planning to pick it up on November 7? Let us know, since we could always use more team mates for Friday Night Fights.