Battlefield 3 Alpha Testing Coming Soon

Players will have an opportunity to try out Battlefield 3 before the beta begins. DICE plans to invite a limited number of fans to play the closed alpha test.

"[The alpha] is a highly tech focused test period where the main purpose is to do a number of server related tests in preparation for game launch requiring a set amount of players online to ensure the final experience is as much fun and easy as possible," said DICE on the Battlefield Blog.

DICE also clarified that this is completely separate from the beta. The beta access granted by purchasing Medal of Honor Limited Edition will not get you in.

"This an Alpha Trial, meaning this software is still not at the 'Beta' development milestone. The Open Beta will start in September. The exact date for when Medal of Honor: Limited Edition players can join the Beta will be announced at a later date."

The alpha test is an invitation-only event. If you're interested, register for the Battlefield 3 newsletter and make sure your Veteran status is updated. Don't bother camping out on Facebook or Twitter, as DICE doesn't plan on giving out any keys via social networking.

The launch date for the alpha test wasn't mentioned. It's possible that it's already going on but is currently limited to friends and family. DICE will no doubt make an announcement when invites are being sent out to the unwashed masses, though.

Battlefield 3 will launch on October 25th in North America and on the 28th in Europe.

Pete Haas

Staff Writer at CinemaBlend.