Hoping to get an early glimpse at the next "Halo" game? You'd better hurry. The much-anticipated "Halo: Reach" beta is coming on May 3rd, but it won't be here for long. Microsoft announced today that the beta will run from May 3rd through May 19th, which works out to about two and a half weeks. Comparatively, the "Halo 3" beta lasted a bit longer than that, running from May 16th to June 6th.
Microsoft also revealed that over the course of those two and a half weeks, the different modes featured in the beta will slowly be rolled out and tested:
As this is a beta, Bungie will be turning on different modes at different times to optimize testing. The beta kicks off with three playlists featuring the all-new, highly competitive Arena mode (4v4 ranked Team Slayer games) as well as "Free-for-All" and "Grab Bag” playlists, which include a mix of classic and brand new game types. Beginning May 7, the new large-scale Spartan vs. Elite “Invasion” playlist will be added to the beta. Finally, beginning May 14 the “Generator Defense” game type will become available.
Lastly, the release mentioned that anyone who participates in the beta will unlock a free "Halo: Reach" avatar hoodie through "Halo Waypoint."
If you're looking to get a sneak peak at the "Halo: Reach" beta, we'll be live streaming gameplay from the beta right here on MTV Multiplayer at 4pm EST on Thursday, April 29th. Be sure to tune in, as we'll also be giving out codes which grant players access to the beta starting tomorrow.