Pre-ordering Gears of War 3 from either GAME or Gamestation will guarantee you entry into the public Beta come this April. That's the word from Microsoft today, who has just published details for those that want to get in on the Beta but who haven't bought a copy of Bulletstorm.
You've got to pre-order the Limited (£59.99) or Epic (£99.99) editions to gain access to the three weeks worth of multiplayer action starting on April 25. Standard edition (£49.99) buyers are excluded from the deal.
Microsoft go on to state in its press release:
"Over the course of the beta program, three new competitive multiplayer modes and four exclusive maps will be rolled out, all running on dedicated servers and providing fans with the opportunity to help shape the biggest blockbuster game of 2011. Two of the four multiplayer maps, Trenches and Old Town, were selected by Gears fans through a Facebook poll that generated thousands of votes.
The Gears of War 3 public multiplayer beta kicks off 25 April and runs through to 15 May. Bulletstorm: Epic Edition customers will get early access beginning 18 April through the Bulletstorm disc."
Bulletstorm owners get in on the beta a week early, starting from April 18.
The Beta also includes the Thrashball and Checkout maps. Microsoft promise "special events and playlists throughout the beta period. Two additional competitive game modes, Capture the Leader and King of the Hill, will be added during the final week of the beta."
So whatever happens folks, looks like we'll have to pay a little bit extra if we want to make sure we can join the Gears party any time soon.