IGN revealed samples of composer Neil Davidge's music for Halo 4, and Microsoft announced that long with a standard album for just under $15, a 2-disc Special Edition includes the tracks and remixes along with a vinyl record.

The soundtrack's standard edition costs $13.98, and releases October 22 digitally. It includes the game's 15 tracks in in physical disc or digital form.

The special edition is a 2-disc boxset, costing $75. It includes the regular soundtrack, a remix album of 14 tracks, the "Making of Halo 4 Music" behind-the-scenes video, "composition notes" along with behind-the-scenes videos from Davidge himself, and "exclusive artwork". It also features a vinyl record with Cortana and Master Chief cover art and a 12-inch art print signed by Neil Davidge.

IGN also published an interview with Neil Davidge Aug. 22 on the Halo 4 soundtrack, along with samples from the game and remixes. The score takes a dramatic turn away from Martin O'Donnell's scores at Bungie, though the reaction from fans seems positive thus far.

"There are connections to Marty's [Martin O'Donnell's] previous scores within this. There is a continuation, thematically, without being too direct about it. Everything's been updated on this game," Davidge said. He added to IGN he felt the score needed to be updated.

The soundtrack was also described as a melding of organic and digital technology. "There's still a romantic aspect to the melodic work," Davidge confirmed, possibly referring to the relationship between Cortana and Master Chief.

Davidge added he met developers 343 Industries in Dec. 2010 -- before Halo 4 was announced -- and started composing as soon as he arrived back in Bristol, UK.

"By the time I was actually due to start composing I'd already written 27 pieces, [even though] all I had was the memory and experience of being in Seattle for three days and meeting everyone involved," he revealed. 343 Industries later vetoed a choice of three tracks per situation.

Halo 4 releases November 6 on Xbox 360.