StarCraft II's beta was expected to begin by the end of the year. According to producer Chris Sigaty, though, it ain't gonna happen.

Sigaty announced at Russian gaming convention IgroMir (via Eurogamer) that the beta will begin in 2010, instead. No reason was given for the delay. It's not clear how this will affect the commercial release of SC2, currently slated for the first half of next year. A late spring or early summer release seems more than likely.

On the bright side, this gives you Johnny Come Lately's a chance to sign up for the beta. Hurray, more competition for limited tester slots.