Blizzard's long-awaited sequel to the real-time strategy game StarCraft is on its way and as expected, it will have a beta. It seems Blizzard has already set the date for the beta, too.

Unfortunately, they won't tell anyone when the closed beta starts, according to StarCraftWire. They're probably keeping the date secret for now so if they decide to move this date for whatever reason, the Internet isn't barraged with "zomg delay wuts wrong with starcraft 2? iz it cancelled? i bet theyre busy portin it to PS3!" gaming blog stories. There will apparently be several opportunities to participate in this beta, though, including a competition or two.

StarCraft II will be released in three parts, each with a new single-player campaign and a complete multiplayer component. The first installment, containing the Terran campaign, is said to be slated for a 2009 release. Unfortunately they're keeping the retail release dates secret too for now.