Had things gone according to plan, hardcore Marvel fans would be eagerly anticipating the arrival of the ultra-luxe $139 Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase One – Avengers Assembled Blu-ray box set next week. Due to a lawsuit over the metallic S.H.I.E.L.D. briefcase that the discs come in, however, the set was pushed back to spring 2013 — and when it does finally arrive, it’ll come in a different case than the one originally shown. Bummer.

Happily, there’s a small silver lining for those who pre-ordered the set on Amazon. The retailer has sent out a notice to customers promising a free copy of The Avengers two-disc Blu-ray / DVD combo, redeemable for the next several weeks. More details after the jump.

Engadget picked up the press release from a tipster. All customers who pre-ordered the set between June 1 and August 28 and have not since cancelled their orders are eligible for the promotion, and the deadline to claim your copy is October 15.

HOORAY!!! :D

REJOICE PRE-ORDER BUDDIES!