Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Diablo 3 beta open to all this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/diablo-3-beta-open-to-all-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/diablo-3-beta-open-to-all-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/diablo-3-beta-open-to-all-this-weekend/#comments Not only will the Diablo 3 beta be back online this weekend, it'll be open to everyone with a Battle.net account - intentionally, this time. Starting today at 12:01pm PDT (3:01pm EDT), Blizzard is hosting an open beta weekend to stress test the servers.

If you have a job that keeps you away from your computer on early Friday afternoons, don't despair: the event runs through Monday at 10am PDT (1pm EDT). Download the client now so you can start clicking as soon as possible.

JoystiqDiablo 3 beta open to all this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionactivision-blizzardbetablizzardDiablo-3macopen-betapcFri, 20 Apr 2012 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Suite enters open beta, some details emerge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/playstation-suite-enters-open-beta-some-details-emerge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/playstation-suite-enters-open-beta-some-details-emerge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/playstation-suite-enters-open-beta-some-details-emerge/#comments The PlayStation Suite looks like it's actually making progress towards life as a bona fide platform/ecosystem for game and app distribution. The service has moved into an open beta phase and developers are now able to download the PlayStation Suite SDK, which includes an "integrated development environment" (IDE) and device simulator for PCs.

No actual game/app distribution will begin until the beta ends "later this year," at which point developers using the SDK will need to contract up, to the tune of $99 a year. The SDK is free until then.

Thanks to the beta's FAQ, we also now know that completely free/ad-supported apps will not be allowed on the service, and that "development will be limited to paid (including freemiun [sic]) content." In-game/in-app microtransaction functionality will be added to the SDK at a later date during the beta.

As far as PlayStation Suite's actual app pricing structure is concerned, both in terms of its consuming-facing strategy and its back-end developer percentages, Sony hasn't quite ironed that out: "We can't provide detailed information at this stage, but we are considering a pricing structure based on current market conditions."

[Thanks, Alec.]

JoystiqPlayStation Suite enters open beta, some details emerge originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmobileopen-betaplaystationplaystation-suiteplaystation-vitaPS-suiteSDKsonyvitaThu, 19 Apr 2012 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes is open for business... er, beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/warhammer-online-wrath-of-heroes-is-open-for-business-er-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/warhammer-online-wrath-of-heroes-is-open-for-business-er-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/10/warhammer-online-wrath-of-heroes-is-open-for-business-er-be/#comments ImageWarhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes entered open beta today, available through the Wrath of Heroes website. Wrath of Heroes is a free-to-play PVP title based on BioWare's MMO of the same-ish title, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning.

Wrath of Heroes offers three-sided, six-player arena combat (for a total of 18 players), each battle lasting an "intense" 15 minutes, the press release promises. We're not sure how minutes can be intense, but we assume counting each second in audible caps lock does the trick.

Continue reading Warhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes is open for business... er, beta

JoystiqWarhammer Online: Wrath of Heroes is open for business... er, beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaBioWareEAopen-betapcwarhammer-online-wrath-of-heroesTue, 10 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tribes: Ascend beta open to all on Feb. 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/tribes-ascend-beta-open-to-all-on-feb-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/tribes-ascend-beta-open-to-all-on-feb-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/tribes-ascend-beta-open-to-all-on-feb-24/#comments So far, 300,000 have played Tribes: Ascend in its closed beta state, Hi-Rez Studios COO Todd Harris revealed. But Hi-Rez wants more players and this Friday, the Tribes: Ascend beta will be open to all.

Before the launch of the open beta, Hi-Rez will add some additional maps and customization options to Tribes: Ascend, plus a new game mode: Arena Deathmatch. These will all be added in a patch coming, well, before Friday, we guess. Hi-Rez hasn't really said when the patch will be live.

If you're worried about player progress, don't sweat it. Your progress and unlocks will carry over to the open beta.

Gallery: Tribes Ascend (2/22/12)

Continue reading Tribes: Ascend beta open to all on Feb. 24

JoystiqTribes: Ascend beta open to all on Feb. 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betahi-rez-studiosopen-betapctribestribes-ascendWed, 22 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Blacklight: Retribution moves to open beta on February 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/blacklight-retribution-moves-to-open-beta-on-february-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/blacklight-retribution-moves-to-open-beta-on-february-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/blacklight-retribution-moves-to-open-beta-on-february-27/#comments Zombie Studios' free-to-play sequel to Blacklight, called Blacklight: Retribution, has gotten itself an open beta date, which means that the game will essentially be ready to party. Feburary 27 is the date in question -- that's the point when the closed beta (which started up last year) will end, player information will be wiped, and the game will start anew for good.

Additionally, the open beta will bring new content with three new maps and custom Heroes to play with, and the Data Node system (which allows users to upgrade and specialize certain pieces of gear) will go live. If you weren't able to get in on any of our many beta keys for the game, then mark your calendar for February 27.

JoystiqBlacklight: Retribution moves to open beta on February 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributionblacklight-tango-down-2datefree-to-playopen-betapcrelease-datezombie-studiosWed, 15 Feb 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[EA is fixing these issues found in the Battlefield 3 open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/ea-is-fixing-these-issues-found-in-the-battlefield-3-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/ea-is-fixing-these-issues-found-in-the-battlefield-3-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/ea-is-fixing-these-issues-found-in-the-battlefield-3-open-beta/#comments
The Battlefield 3 open beta isn't just for fun and war games. EA has been listening to feedback from players and the Battlefield Blog now has a list of the most important fixes that will be in the game's final version (with a full list in the Battlelog news section):

Continue reading EA is fixing these issues found in the Battlefield 3 open beta

JoystiqEA is fixing these issues found in the Battlefield 3 open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3EAElectronic-Artsmicrosoftopen-betapcplaystationps3xboxSat, 01 Oct 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Dota challenger Rise of Immortals goes into open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/new-dota-challenger-rise-of-immortals-goes-into-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/new-dota-challenger-rise-of-immortals-goes-into-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/05/new-dota-challenger-rise-of-immortals-goes-into-open-beta/#comments Petroglyph Games' Rise of Immortals has entered into an open beta, meaning that you can now try out this new entry into the growing Defense of the Ancients-based (sometimes called Moba) genre for yourself. Register an account on the official site, download the game client and you're good to play. Winning, on the other hand, will probably take longer than that, as these games aren't known for their smooth learning curves, especially if you're not familiar with the premise.

We got to see this one back at GDC, and played it during the closed beta period. The game does bring some innovations to the genre, including a player-level progression system and a map that's designed specifically for a three-person PvE experience. Unfortunately, the polish just isn't there yet, especially when compared to more established titles in the genre like the very popular League of Legends.

But then again, that's what a beta's for, right? No word on how long the beta will last, but given that it was supposed to start even earlier this spring, you can guess it'll probably be around as long as it needs to be.

Continue reading New Dota challenger Rise of Immortals goes into open beta

JoystiqNew Dota challenger Rise of Immortals goes into open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 22:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadotaopen-betapcpetroglyph-gamesrise-of-immortalsroistrategyTue, 05 Jul 2011 22:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Hellgate open beta starts next Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/hellgate-open-beta-starts-next-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/hellgate-open-beta-starts-next-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/25/hellgate-open-beta-starts-next-thursday/#comments Hellgate, T3 Entertainment and HanBitSoft's free-to-play relaunch of Flagship Studios' doomed MMO, will open up its doors to any and all interested evil-smiting parties starting next week. The game's public beta will launch in North America and Europe next Thursday, June 30, giving new volunteers the opportunity to try out the beta's limited suite of features. You can sign up to try out the relaunched title on the official Hellgate website.

According to a HanBitSoft press release, the arrival of the open beta will bring two new game modes to the client: A PvP arena, and the "Cow Room," which tasks players with surviving waves of attacking zombies -- and notably lacks any bovine aggressors. You may be wondering, "Why is called the Cow Room?" It's almost worth checking out the beta to find out.

JoystiqHellgate open beta starts next Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaflagship-studioshanbitsofthellgatemmoopen-betapct3-entertainmentSat, 25 Jun 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded accepting some players in advance of May 18 open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/apb-reloaded-accepting-some-players-in-advance-of-may-18-open-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/apb-reloaded-accepting-some-players-in-advance-of-may-18-open-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/04/apb-reloaded-accepting-some-players-in-advance-of-may-18-open-be/#comments Though the original launch of APB could be considered an extremely costly beta for the free-to-play APB Reloaded, GamersFirst is still working out the details of the new version, starting with a closed beta that began back in February.

If you're ready to try the cops-and-robbers MMO again for the first time, GamersFirst is hosting an open beta starting May 18. You might actually play before that, as the company is beginning to let new players in now -- to "slowly turn up 'the heat' on our servers before going fully 'open,'" as GamersFirst's Bjorn Book-Larsson described it.

You'll need to be 17 (18 outside of the US), have a GamersFirst account, and then sign up online using the same email address. Good luck to those of you trying to get in, and those of you trying to maintain the servers!

JoystiqAPB Reloaded accepting some players in advance of May 18 open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>APBapb-reloadedapb-reloaded-betagamersfirstmmoopen-betapcWed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darkspore open beta client now available for download]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/darkspore-open-beta-client-now-available-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/darkspore-open-beta-client-now-available-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/darkspore-open-beta-client-now-available-for-download/#comments It's been far too long since you've played god with the genetic makeup of poor, defenseless cryptozoological monsters -- why not dip your toes into Maxis' dark, action-RPG followup to Spore, obviously titled Darkspore? The game recently entered open beta, allowing players to dungeon delve through the first few levels until the beta client goes kaput on April 22. The retail release is scheduled to follow on April 26.

You can download the beta client on our sister site Big Download, but you might want to check out the minimum system requirements posted after the jump before you spend all of that precious bandwidth. It's the currency of the future, you know? Like dirt and paper in Waterworld.

Continue reading Darkspore open beta client now available for download

JoystiqDarkspore open beta client now available for download originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaDarksporeeamaxisopen-betapcsystem-requirementsThu, 14 Apr 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[StarCraft 2 open beta begins in China on March 29]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/19/starcraft-2-open-beta-begins-in-china-on-march-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/19/starcraft-2-open-beta-begins-in-china-on-march-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/19/starcraft-2-open-beta-begins-in-china-on-march-29/#comments Just as we experienced here in the United States, mainland China is about to undergo a beta testing period for StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty. Ever since striking a deal back in 2008, Blizzard and NetEase have been working to bring the game to the country -- on March 29, that deal will come to fruition.

Anxious gamers in the region can pre-load the beta client -- provided they have a Battle.net account or at least a willingness to register -- which will grant access to all of StarCraft 2: Wings of Liberty's multiplayer modes. Upon the conclusion of the unspecified beta period, Blizzard and NetEase will launch the game commercially, allowing players to buy 30-day access passes to the game for a suggested price of RMB 20 ($3.04). It's in line with a pricing structure that Blizzard outlined a year ago.

To pre-load the Chinese beta client, head on over to Blizzard's site.

JoystiqStarCraft 2 open beta begins in China on March 29 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betablizzardchinaneteaseopen-betapcStarcraft-2Sat, 19 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Battlestar Galactica Online now in open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/psa-battlestar-galactica-online-now-in-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/psa-battlestar-galactica-online-now-in-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/08/psa-battlestar-galactica-online-now-in-open-beta/#comments Just because the show concluded back in 2009, it doesn't mean you've seen the last of Adama, Leoben and the rest of those zany survivors and the Cylons who chase them. As expected, an open beta for Bigpoint Games' space combat MMO Battlestar Galactica Online is currently underway and anyone can play. The beta's available exclusively on SyFy.com for the next six weeks.

Battlestar Galactica Online takes place during an unspecified time in the television drama's run, where both Cylon and Colonial forces are trapped in a sector of space, vying for military and resource dominance. Lolcats not included.

[Image credit]

JoystiqPSA: Battlestar Galactica Online now in open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestar-galactica-onlinebetabigpoint-gamesmmoopen-betapcsyfyTue, 08 Feb 2011 22:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Company of Heroes Online gets new trailer, open beta starts next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/29/company-of-heroes-online-gets-new-trailer-open-beta-starts-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/29/company-of-heroes-online-gets-new-trailer-open-beta-starts-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/29/company-of-heroes-online-gets-new-trailer-open-beta-starts-next/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you didn't get in on the first wave of closed beta invites for THQ and Relic's Company of Heroes Online, you're guaranteed to get your chance in the coming days. A new trailer for the online strategy title sent to us by THQ included the announcement that the game's open beta testing will kick off some time this week. An exact time and date for the relaunch wasn't announced, but an update on the title's official site promises more details are coming soon.

In the mean time, check out the new trailer after the jump, and think about which of the three Doctrines your strategy will be built around. Wait, you're adopting a policy of pacifism? Yeah, that's going to work out really well for you, we think.

Continue reading Company of Heroes Online gets new trailer, open beta starts next week

JoystiqCompany of Heroes Online gets new trailer, open beta starts next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>company-of-heroes-onlineopen-betapcrelic-entertainmentthqSun, 29 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIV open beta begins August 31]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/final-fantasy-xiv-open-beta-begins-august-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/final-fantasy-xiv-open-beta-begins-august-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/final-fantasy-xiv-open-beta-begins-august-31/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you weren't one of the chosen few who managed to weasel their way into the game's closed beta test, your first chance to log a few hours into Final Fantasy XIV will come next week. Square Enix announced through the game's official forums that open beta servers will go live next Tuesday, August 31 at 7 p.m. PDT.

Though the forum post explains that servers will be live 24 hours a day, only a set number of players will be able to log on at one time. This number will gradually increase as Square Enix tests out its server loads, but in the mean time, players who get turned away will be placed on a waiting list. Just think of it like you're waiting in line to gain access to a hip, happening night club, only ... um, it's the exact polar opposite.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIV open beta begins August 31 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafinal-fantasy-xivmmommorpgopen-betapcsquare-enixSat, 28 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metro Conflict: Presto is latest UE3-powered free-to-play FPS from Korea's Redduck]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/metro-conflict-presto-is-latest-ue3-powered-free-to-play-fps-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/metro-conflict-presto-is-latest-ue3-powered-free-to-play-fps-fr/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/metro-conflict-presto-is-latest-ue3-powered-free-to-play-fps-fr/#comments If you're anything like us, you woke up this morning hoping for a brand-new, Unreal Engine 3-based, free-to-play shooter from South Korea to be announced. And alas, Alliance of Valiant Arms developer Reduck has satisfied just that need in announcing "Metro Conflict: Presto" by way of a joint press release with Epic Games Korea.

We only note the collaborative nature of the press release because of the total lovefest that ensues around three paragraphs in. "Epic's Unreal Engine 3 was a big factor in our success with A.V.A. [and] we're looking forward to pushing ourselves even further with Metro Conflict: Presto," Do-Min, Ok, chief technology officer at Redduck, said of the deal. Epic Games Korea's Ray Park similarly offered, "We're thrilled that they're using Unreal Engine 3 again for Metro Conflict: Presto, and can't wait to see what they're able to do with it this time." And he'll see soon enough, as the free-to-play FPS is planned to go into open beta this December. But for now, we've got the dramatic teaser trailer for you just above.

JoystiqMetro Conflict: Presto is latest UE3-powered free-to-play FPS from Korea's Redduck originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alliance-of-valiant-armsavabetado-min-okepic-gamesepic-games-koreafpsfree-to-playmetro-conflict-prestoopen-betaq4-2010ray-parkredduckrelease-dateunreal-engine-3Tue, 27 Apr 2010 15:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Network open beta begins tonight [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/rock-band-network-open-beta-begins-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/rock-band-network-open-beta-begins-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/rock-band-network-open-beta-begins-tonight/#comments If you've been tinkering around with the Rock Band Network song programming tools, turning your heartfelt ballads into batches of multicolored gems, you'll be able to place your work in front of an audience for the first time today. Harmonix is launching an open beta of the platform at some point this evening, which will allow musicians with an XNA Creators Club membership to publish their songs, and peer-review the work their fellow artists have contributed.

Of course, we won't be able to download the songs until the platform officially goes live -- which Harmonix recently informed Destructoid wouldn't be until "we accrue a good base of content, though we're already really excited by what we have in the pipeline." If you were curious about what that pipeline currently looks like, we suggest checking out this Harmonix forum post, which compiles all the bands who've shown interest in Rock Band-ing their ditties.

Update: Okay, the beta is actually live now! Let the rocking commence.

JoystiqRock Band Network open beta begins tonight [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harmonixMicrosoftmtv-gamesmusicopen-betarhythmrock-bandrock-band-2rock-band-networkXbox-360Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: MAG open beta starts today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/psa-mag-open-beta-starts-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/psa-mag-open-beta-starts-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/04/psa-mag-open-beta-starts-today/#comments If you haven't managed to weasel your way into the MAG beta through the dozen or so channels that have popped up over the past few months, you've now got a sure-fire way to enlist in the Shadow War. Starting today, anyone can download and play MAG, without the cumbersome requirement of a GameStop pre-order or Qore subscription. If you're interested, hop on it with a quickness -- the beta's only running until January 10!

JoystiqPSA: MAG open beta starts today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Jan 2010 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafpsfreemagonlineopen-betapsnzipper-interactiveMon, 04 Jan 2010 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[MAG beta open to all on January 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/mag-beta-open-to-all-on-january-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/mag-beta-open-to-all-on-january-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/21/mag-beta-open-to-all-on-january-4/#commentsExciting news for those of you who were unable to get into the MAG beta via Sony employee status, email invitation, Qore subscription, GameStop pre-order, Europe-only signup, or Joystiq contest! Now Sony has announced a MAG beta for everyone -- including the people who, somehow, didn't get into it already!

The new beta file will be available for download on PSN starting January 4. Existing beta members will be able to update their files now to prepare for the upcoming trial -- which means that you shouldn't delete your MAG data yet! The beta is short-lived, lasting only until January 10, so be sure to get your fill of 64-player "Sabotage" and 256-player "Domination." Or, at least, be sure to play enough to tide you over for sixteen days.

Gallery: MAG

JoystiqMAG beta open to all on January 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betademofpsmagopen-betazipper-interactiveMon, 21 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NCSoft announces Aion open beta dates, pre-orders get early access]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/ncsoft-announces-aion-open-beta-dates-pre-orders-get-early-acce/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/ncsoft-announces-aion-open-beta-dates-pre-orders-get-early-acce/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/27/ncsoft-announces-aion-open-beta-dates-pre-orders-get-early-acce/#comments
If you're itching to try your hand at NCSoft's upcoming winged MMORPG, Aion, before its September 22 release, a recent press release has announced two methods of doing so. The first is probably the more noteworthy option -- the game is going into open beta for one week only starting Sunday, September 6. The sneak preview will allow players from both of the game's factions to reach level 30, and lets them fly, fight and fly-fight through every locale from the full game.

The second opportunity to beat the release day rush is by pre-ordering the game -- those who pursue this option can pre-select their servers and character names on September 18, then start playing a full 48 hours in advance on September 20. Is the five-dollars-down worth the exclusive pre-launch access? Sadly, we can't make that decision for you. We can, however, tell you what to have for lunch: Nachos. You're welcome.

JoystiqNCSoft announces Aion open beta dates, pre-orders get early access originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbetaflightmmommorpgncsoftopen-betapre-ordersneak-previewwingsThu, 27 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Champions Online open beta starts August 18 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/champions-online-open-beta-starts-august-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/champions-online-open-beta-starts-august-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/29/champions-online-open-beta-starts-august-18/#comments
[Update: Cryptic Studios has clarified that the open beta for Champions Online will be open to everyone who pre-orders the game, not just those who do so through Direct2Drive. Also, subscribers to FilePlanet will be able to download the game client ahead of the official launch, and have an opportunity to snag one of 50,000 beta keys that will be offered by the site.]

Sure, it's an exciting headline if you've been jonesing to join legions of other adults as they pretend to have super powers, but it does come attached to a couple of caveats. For one, the Champions Online beta will only be running until August 26, scarcely enough time to get our tights broken in.

Also, you won't be able to get entrance to the beta unless you pre-order the game through IGN's Direct2Drive service beginning on August 5. Maybe that's not a problem for you, but if that's a deal breaker (ladies), you'll be sitting on your latex-gloved thumbs until the game launches for real on September 1.

JoystiqChampions Online open beta starts August 18 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betachampions-onlinecryptic-studiosdirect2drivemmoopen-betaWed, 29 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Realms closed beta begins, open beta in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/free-realms-closed-beta-begins-open-beta-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/free-realms-closed-beta-begins-open-beta-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/free-realms-closed-beta-begins-open-beta-in-april/#comments
Sony Online Entertainment's free-to-play MMO, Free Realms, has just entered closed beta. Unlike its previous efforts, EverQuest and PlanetSide, SOE is trying to target a very casual market, promising a "kid-safe" experience that offers "something for everyone." Players aren't locked into individual classes, for example, and will be able to partake in a number of non-violent activities, such as pet raising and kart racing.

The beta is currently available on PC only, although a PS3 version of Free Realms is also in the works. The closed beta appears to be rather limited, with invites extended to press (you know, the big kids) and "a few selected players." Those that are interested in the open beta, which begins in April, will want to pre-register at freerealms.com.

JoystiqFree Realms closed beta begins, open beta in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaclosed-betafree-realmsopen-betasoesony-online-entertainmentThu, 26 Feb 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Home servers now live; you can now go Home]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/home-servers-now-live-you-may-now-go-home/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/home-servers-now-live-you-may-now-go-home/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/home-servers-now-live-you-may-now-go-home/#commentsFiled under:

If you're not one of our many readers who've been continuously pressing F5 for the last nine hours or so, you might be unaware that the Home open beta is now live for all regions.

Don't look at us like that. Of course we're not lying. Home has actually launched. Once you've picked your jaw up from the floor, simply restart your PS3 and you'll find the icon under the PlayStation Network section of the XMB. From there you'll download the client and begin your Home journey. Be sure to let us know what you think in the comments.

JoystiqHome servers now live; you can now go Home originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homeopen-betareleaseThu, 11 Dec 2008 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Home servers will be up 'early PM' GMT with open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/home-servers-will-be-up-early-pm-gmt-with-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/home-servers-will-be-up-early-pm-gmt-with-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/11/home-servers-will-be-up-early-pm-gmt-with-open-beta/#commentsFiled under:

[UPDATE] Home servers are now live. The open beta has begun.

Did you hear? The Home open beta starts today. The client has been patched up to version 1.03 and the servers are down while Sony does various jiggerypokery behind the scenes. TedTheDog states that the service should be back up, along with the launch of open beta, "early PM UK time," though he adds that he can't be more specific than that, thanks to the nature of the global updates.

Ted also confirms that the Home icon will appear on the XMB as soon as the final switch is pulled, though people who are using their PS3s at the time will need to restart. In case you're wondering, it's already past Midday in the UK, so it could go live at any minute. We'll update this post as soon as that happens.

[UPDATE] TedTheDog has updated with the current situation, as of 3pm GMT (10am EST): "Still progressing nicely, now on the testing stage. No eta still as I wouldnt want to guess how long it will take for each region to verify its elements are working but we're getting there." Shouldn't be too long now ...

More updates after the break

Continue reading Home servers will be up 'early PM' GMT with open beta

JoystiqHome servers will be up 'early PM' GMT with open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homeopen-betaThu, 11 Dec 2008 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Home open beta begins tomorrow ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/home-open-beta-begins-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/home-open-beta-begins-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/10/home-open-beta-begins-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under:

It's been a long wait, but we're finally all going Home. SCEE has announced that the service will be available to everyone starting tomorrow. From the looks of it, there'll be no firmware update involved. The Home icon should simply appear under the PSN section of the XMB after a system reboot. As for what content you can expect to see once the open beta begins, there'll be plenty more than in the current closed beta, with more coming soon.

The Far Cry 2 game space will make a return and new content, such as clothing from Diesel, furniture from Ligne Roset and the Red Bull Air Race space will appear. Game spaces for Uncharted, Warhawk and SOCOM will follow "vey soon." Watchmen movie content has also been announced via the press release, including "an exclusive video greeting from Watchmen Director Zack Snyder as well as the latest Watchmen trailer. A selection of virtual Watchmen merchandise e.g. T-Shirts with the smiley face logo, Doomsday clocks and character statues, will also be available in the New Year, ahead of an exclusive Q & A event where cast and filmmakers will meet selected press and competition winners fans within the Watchmen themed environment. "

Check back later for some more information about interesting upcoming Home content which might get you excited about the service all over again.

JoystiqHome open beta begins tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homeopen-betasceeWed, 10 Dec 2008 04:45:00 EST<![CDATA[European Home situation update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/15/european-home-situation-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/15/european-home-situation-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/15/european-home-situation-update/#commentsFiled under:

It's only been a week since we were told that the European Home beta expansion was pretty close and that the open beta was expected "within weeks," but now TedTheDog has updated us with some more information regarding the current situation. Don't panic -- it's all good news. Here's how the whole situation will play out.

Firstly the version 1.0 patch notes will be made available for those currently in the Home beta. They will be published in the closed beta forums, but don't be surprised if they spill out of there shortly thereafter. A few days after that version 1.0 will go live. Within a day or so of that invitations will be sent out as the closed beta gets significantly expanded as a load test for the servers. The open beta will begin shortly afterwards (a matter of weeks).

So there we have it. We'll let you know when any of the above actually happens, as usual. Can you taste it? It's close. We just hope version 1.0 brings some significant updates to the service like, for example, some actual content. Here's hoping.

JoystiqEuropean Home situation update originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaeuropehomeopen-betasceeSat, 15 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[European Home beta expansion imminent, open beta 'within weeks']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/european-home-beta-expansion-imminent-open-beta-within-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/european-home-beta-expansion-imminent-open-beta-within-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/european-home-beta-expansion-imminent-open-beta-within-weeks/#commentsFiled under:

Qore subscribers will be given the keys to Home today so, naturally, the assumption was that European beta invites will be sent out around the same time. While it seems that won't be happening today it shouldn't be too long. TedTheDog, community manager at the official European PlayStation forums, has said that a new wave of beta invites will be sent out once Home gets to version 1.0

The names of those who will be receiving invites have already been chosen, so it can't be too far away. If you're not on the list, though, Ted says not to worry as "Open Beta will be along within weeks of" the invites being sent out. Things are looking good for a beta launch happening before Christmas. Did you ever doubt it? Yeah, so did we.

JoystiqEuropean Home beta expansion imminent, open beta 'within weeks' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betahomeopen-betaqoreThu, 06 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Booty open beta now available for Fileplanet users]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/age-of-booty-open-beta-now-available-for-fileplanet-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/age-of-booty-open-beta-now-available-for-fileplanet-users/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/20/age-of-booty-open-beta-now-available-for-fileplanet-users/#commentsFiled under: ,

If we could somehow produce an audio version of this particular post, you'd hear a distinct gruffness to our characteristically un-gruff voices -- an unfortunate, though not completely unforeseeable, result of our enthusiastic observation of International Talk Like a Pirate Day. Capcom had their own way of celebrating the seafaring holiday -- yesterday, the open beta for Age of Booty (formerly Plunder, even more formerly Pimps at Sea) went live via a free download for all Fileplanet users.

You probably don't need us to tell you that the beta is for the PC version of the game -- those hoping to buckle their swashes on Xbox Live Arcade will have to wait for the game's yet-to-be-decided 2008 release date.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqAge of Booty open beta now available for Fileplanet users originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-bootycapcomcertain-affinityfileplanetMicrosoftopen-betaPCXbox-360Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Application site for the Resistance 2 beta is now open]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/application-site-for-the-resistance-2-beta-is-now-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/application-site-for-the-resistance-2-beta-is-now-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/10/application-site-for-the-resistance-2-beta-is-now-open/#commentsFiled under:


It seems you can't move for betas nowadays. If you weren't fortuitous enough to get into the SOCOM beta, maybe you should try your luck with Resistance 2. The beta sign-up page is now open for business, seemingly catering to to the entire online Resistance 2 community. So if you fancy the chance of some free online running-and-gunning with 59 other players at a time, be sure to sign up. You'll need to sign in with your PSN ID and answer a few questions. After that comes the long, tortuous wait. With SOCOM running throughout September and a LittleBigPlanet closed beta occuring between now and launch, this is going to be an interesting month. Unless you're unlucky enough to miss out on all three, that is ...

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqApplication site for the Resistance 2 beta is now open originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betainsomniacopen-betaresistance-2Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Mythic flings wide the gates of the Warhammer Online open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/mythic-flings-wide-the-gates-of-the-warhammer-online-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/mythic-flings-wide-the-gates-of-the-warhammer-online-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/07/mythic-flings-wide-the-gates-of-the-warhammer-online-open-beta/#commentsFiled under: ,


We know that most of you had some fairly important decisions to make this morning -- for instance, the mind-plaguing decision between coffee or tea, or the equally perplexing choice of cereal or pancakes. Perhaps you spent an hour in front of your dresser, trying to decide between boxers or briefs -- or, for our Alaskan friends, which color long johns best suited your mood. However, a select few of you will be making an even more complex decision today, likely in the next few hours: High Elves or Greenskins?

This race-rolling dilemma will be cordially presented to you by Mythic's Warhammer Online -- the open beta for which launched earlier this morning. Members of the previous stages of the closed beta and those who have pre-ordered the title at "select retail partners" can now download the client and let loose the dogs of WAR (though we've heard a number of complaints from frenzied pre-orderers who have had trouble accessing the beta). Fear not, unwashed masses -- your Age of Reckoning will begin in a little over a week.

JoystiqMythic flings wide the gates of the Warhammer Online open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaeaElectronic-Artsmythicopen-betaPCwarhammer-onlineSun, 07 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft attacks your summer with EndWar beta, register today!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/ubisoft-attacks-your-summer-with-endwar-beta-register-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/ubisoft-attacks-your-summer-with-endwar-beta-register-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/ubisoft-attacks-your-summer-with-endwar-beta-register-today/#commentsFiled under:


Tipsters are going mad! Mad we tell ya! Today Ubisoft has been shooting off emails to registered users inviting them to register for a chance to beta test Tom Clancy's EndWar. The Xbox 360 exclusive open beta is scheduled to run for three weeks between June and July and allow users to the real-time strategy game online in 1v1 or 2v2 matches across three multiplayer maps.

Registration is now open for the open beta and Ubisoft reminds registrants that this is an actual beta and bugs are probably going to occur. Oh and remember kids, you need an Xbox Live Gold account, at least 3GB of free hard drive space (a bag full-o-memory cards won't do!) and a pocket full of hopes and dreams to get into the beta that's sure to fill up fast. If you are lucky enough to be selected for the beta you will be notified by Ubisoft at a later time.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqUbisoft attacks your summer with EndWar beta, register today! originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaendwaropen-betatom-clancytom-clancys-endwarubisoftThu, 29 May 2008 19:15:00 EST