That's right: get those twitch skills polished up because it's almost time to get an early taste of what Battlefield 4 is all about. Electronic Arts said on Friday that the Open Beta will take place on October 1 for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Windows PC – sorry, no early access for next-generation consoles. The full game lights up on October 29.
"The Beta gives us a chance to properly test our servers, the back end, and configure the multiplayer components of the game. By taking part, you will help us in ensuring a smooth launch for Battlefield 4," the company states. "You’ll also have the option to feedback directly to us with any gameplay ideas, bugs you find, and other thoughts on the Beta experience."
The "Open" beta will feature Conquest mode on the Siege of Shanghai map. However, it's unknown when players will have access to the "Exclusive" Battlefield 4 Beta. This version will only be offered to those who pre-purchased the Battlefield 4 Digital Deluxe Edition on Origin.com, Battlefield 3: Premium members, and registered owners of Medal of Honor Warfighter Limited Edition or Digital Deluxe Edition.
EA states that the "Exclusive" beta will arrive in early October. But with Battlefield 3, EA offered early 48 hour access to those who qualified back in 2011. Chances are that could happen again, meaning the VIP club may get early access on September 29 and the general crowd on October 1.
EA is also pushing console gamers of the current generation to go ahead and invest in Battlefield 4 at launch, and then carry over their data when they purchase the new Xbox One or Playstation 4, and the next-gen version of Battlefield 4.
"Playing early on the Xbox 360 or PS3 means you will be able to learn maps, unlock items, and build stats," the company said. "You can then seamlessly carry over a lot of cool content from the current gen game to a new Xbox One or PS4 version to get a jump on the competition."
"Offers from many of our retail partners will help you buy Battlefield 4on the Xbox 360 or PS3, and then upgrade to an Xbox One or PS4 version for as little as $10," the company adds. Additional information regarding upgrades can be accessed here.
Follow us @tomshardware, on Facebook and on Google+.
