It is the biggest video game launch this year, and indeed probably since Halo 2. However, some consumers could be in for a wicked surprise when Halo 3 goes on sale tonight after midnight at 10,000 retailers nationwide. Over the weekend, the popular gaming message board NeoGAF alerted the community to what could be a major problem for Microsoft and the retail sector when Halo 3 launches.

The limited edition version of the game ($69.99) comes packaged in a special tin case. Unfortunately, the plastic nub affixed to the tin to hold the disc in place does not provide suitable grip and the disc tends to come loose during shipping, or just from being tossed around.

GameDaily BIZ received its own limited edition copy of Halo 3 on Saturday and we can confirm that both the main game disc and the bonus disc were loose in the tin and covered in tiny scratches. While both discs do boot up and the game seems to play normally, it's entirely possible that one of the scratches could cause music to skip or the game to freeze at a later point while we're attempting to finish the fight.

A number of purported retail members also appeared on NeoGAF to verify that the limited edition copies they had in store were either scratched or, without opening, sounded like they had loose discs inside. It should be noted, however, that when shaking the tin box you will hear a slight rattle from the extra art book; but adept ears should be able to tell the difference between that sound and the loose disc sound.

Luckily, the standard edition ($59.99) and the legendary edition ($129.99) do not appear to be affected by this disc scratching problem as they don't use the tin casing.

GameDaily BIZ has contacted Microsoft and leading video game retailer GameStop for comment but has yet to hear back. If the limited edition disc scratching problem is widespread it could put a major blemish on this hugely anticipated launch.

For more on Halo 3, including the game's review, check out the GameDaily Halo 3 hub.

[UPDATE] Two more GameDaily staffers received their limited edition copies with scratched discs as well.

[UPDATE 2] GameSpot is now reporting that its limited edition had loose discs, which were scratched by the casing's nub. We won't know the full extent of the problem until the game is released in mere hours, but this doesn't bode well.

[UPDATE 3] Microsoft has now acknowledged the problem and they will issue free replacement discs to purchasers who have found scratches. Read this story for more details.