Halo 5: Guardians Beta Test Dates Announced, Trailer Released

Along with the release of a multiplayer beta trailer, 343 Industries has shed more light on the Halo 5: Guardians multiplayer beta at Gamescom and even gave dates for the testing phase. The beta testing phase has been reported to begin December 29 and last for three weeks until January 18. 343i will be looking at not only the networking capabilities of Microsoft servers, but also looking at the methods of which the beta testers will play.

Using these player tactics and the direct feedback of users, 343i will craft a better user experience for the full game. The beta will be focused on 4v4 combat on 7 maps with 3 different gametypes. Additionally, 343 will offer 11 different weapons to play with and a few armor skins. Unlockable items will transfer to the full game version and loadouts will be disabled during the beta. The aim of this game is to give Halo a more updated feel while keeping the classic experience.

In addition to the excitement of the upcoming beta test, 343i added to the hype by announcing The Halo Channel, a central hub that allows access to all Halo games and content from a single place on your Xbox One console. According to the 343 Industries website, the Master Chief Collection will be integrated into this hub along with Twitch streaming for live gameplay streams to show off your skills.

Interested beta testers can enter by purchasing the Halo: Master Chief Collection (releasing on November 11), which includes 1080p/60fps versions of Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo 2, Halo 3, and Halo 4 all for only $60. Halo 5 will launch in fall of 2015 as an Xbox One exclusive. See you out on the battlefield, Spartans!