Yes, that's right, the very reason most of us want or own a Xbox 360 -- Halo 3 -- will have its beta sign ups on Dec. 4. No specific date has been picked for when the beta starts, but Microsoft says it will be sometime in spring 2007. From the press release:

Microsoft today unveiled further details and an official call to entry for the “Halo 3” beta program. Beginning Monday, Dec. 4, by visiting http://www.halo3.com, gamers in North America will be able to register for the opportunity to be one of the select members to join the unprecedented “Halo 3” public beta program, scheduled to kick off in spring 2007. Today’s announcement confirms the first path of entry for gamers to participate in the beta program and be among the first to experience the most anticipated game of 2007.

The Xbox Live multiplayer public beta, which is a pre-release version of the multiplayer experience of “Halo 3,” is scheduled for availability in spring 2007 exclusively on Xbox 360. This beta also represents an opportunity for gamers to participate in the development of “Halo 3.” Through the resulting feedback, Bungie Studios will be able to further refine and hone the end result of “Halo 3.”

 Also, a new 60-second commercial will run for the game on the same day:

Humanity is about to experience another exciting look at the world of “Halo 3,” one of the most anticipated entertainment launches for 2007. Airing in North America, Monday, Dec. 4 on ESPN’s Monday Night Football and Xbox.com in Europe, the new 60-second “Halo 3” trailer will offer viewers an exclusive look at the iconic “Halo” universe and provide telling, new hints as to what Bungie Studios has in store for the highly regarded game, which is published by Microsoft Game Studios and exclusive to Xbox 360.

Fans can tune in to ESPN on Monday, Dec. 4 between 5:50 and 6:20 p.m. PST to catch this stunning new look at “Halo 3.” Additionally, the ad will be aired that same evening on Xbox.com at 8 p.m. PST /04.00 GMT/05.00 CET (Tuesday, Dec. 5).

Prepare to lose your life in spring 2007. Say goodbye to the wife and kids.