GameSpot breaks word on Halo 2 for the Xbox being essentially complete as far as development is concerned.  At least complete enough that the developers can afford to take a break from now up until the game's launch this November 9th or so the developer's site claims.

"'We are basically done making Halo 2. Seriously. Barring any unexpected shenanigans, Halo 2 is done and dusted, simultaneously, for every region it will be released in worldwide.'

'It isn't literally the last update of course, since there's lots to do and say between now and November 9th, but I can honestly say that there's no more updating on the progress of the game, since the game is done. Finished and shipped to a nebulous region known as RTC (Release To Certification) where it will be dumped from eight digital tapes onto a DVD and go through some final testing. Usually that's just a matter of routine, but we'll be watching our email carefully through next week.'"

Once the testing is complete, then the mass manufacturing can officially begin.  Then comes the waiting for the game...