The test will allow gamers access to two maps in Ground Control II, along with two tutorial maps. Both of the playable factions in the game, the Northern Star Alliance and the Virons will be available to players. Those chosen for the Beta program will need to download a 300 Mb application at the Ground Control II website, which will include software to play over the GameSpy multiplayer network.
Gamers interested in joining the test can visit the betatest submission page to fill out the online application. (Note that online applications will start with Europe this week-end and will be open to other countries by mid-next week). From the applications, five thousand players around the world will be chosen to participate, based on their computer's specifications.
"It's extremely exciting to finally announce the multiplayer beta test for Ground Control II. The development team has worked very hard for almost two years and we're all anxious to hear the response from gamers worldwide. We hope that everyone will have as much fun playing the game as we are currently having in the office, and we sincerely appreciate all the feedback that we can get from the beta testers," said Martin Walfisz, CEO, Massive Entertainment.
Ground Control II: Operation Exodus combines the fast-paced action and stunning graphics of an action game, with the tactical thinking of a real-time strategy game. In a departure from traditional RTS games, Ground Control II: Operation Exodus focuses on tactical combat with minimal time spent on resource management. Instead of harvesting resources and building bases, the game keeps the action hot and heavy by immediately rewarding players for accomplishing objectives. Additionally, the unique multiplayer drop-in mode allows players to instantly join an ongoing game at any time, for any length of time.
Ground Control II: Operation Exodus chronicles the ongoing conflict between the Northern Star Alliance and the Terran Empire. Having lost the war in space, the NSA retreats to their homeworld and forces the Terran Empire to engage in a savage war of attrition on the ground. As a commander in the field, players can command a task force consisting of infantry, tanks, artillery and aircraft alone in the single player campaign or with other players via LAN or Internet.
Developed by Massive Entertainment, Ground Control II: Operation Exodus features the best 3D graphics engine in the RTS genre, allowing for outstanding graphics with incredible levels of detail. Ground Control II: Operation Exodus will be available in June 2004 for the PC. For more information, log on to http://www.groundcontrol2.com.