A novel based on Microsoft's popular xBox game Halo is coming out, but its legions of fans would prefer a movie adaptation. So it is no surprise that rumors of a Halo movie are circulating again in gaming circles after the latest press release on the book "Halo: Cryptum" by Greg Bear hinted at a film adaptation coming to theaters next year.

The French site Halo.fr reported that Dreamworks studio will be filming a Halo movie directed by Steven Spielberg.

The press release did not mention the movie's storyline but from the rumor mills, it will be based on "Halo: Cryptum," which tells of the lost species called Forerunners, holders of the next stage of life in the universe.

Microsoft had signed a Halo movie deal in 2005 but the project was shelved because of the huge tab to make it: $145 million. Does Microsoft have the funds now?

Well, even if it has, there will be no movie yet. Microsoft ended the Halo movie rumor by telling Movies.ign.com: "The information in the press release in question is inaccurate. We have no plans for a Halo feature film right now. Our focus is on developing Halo: Anniversary and Halo 4."

The end.