Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics appear ready to shift the discourse surroundingMarvel’s Avengersaway from this past week’s PlayStation-exclusive content announcements. What better way to do that than the start the highly-anticipated, and PS4-exclusive, closed beta early? Those who have pre-ordered the PS4 version ofMarvel’s Avengerscan now download and play through what’s available. The closed beta will last through August 9 at 9:00 pm local time, soMarvel’s Avengerswill be available all weekend.
TheMarvel’s AvengersPS4 closed betawas planned to launch not Friday morning, but rather Friday evening. The early launch means players will be able to access the beta for around 12 extra hours. While that may not be a huge amount, especially since most people have to work through the day, it’s better than nothing. Given how limited theMarvel’s Avengersbeta weekend is, every extra hour is special.
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While no specific reason for the beta’s early launch was given, it can probably be assumed. First, the beta was probably ready, so there was no reason to hold back. The extra 12 hours could have been used for any last-second fixes, otherwise. But even more importantly, these Friday hours will act as a sort of rollout for themultiplayer game’s servers. A Friday evening launch would result in the servers being hammered, whereas a morning launch while folks are leaving for work is much more optimal.
PS4 pre-orderers ofMarvel’s Avengerswill have access to a broad swathe of content from the upcoming action game. Content includes the original Golden Gate Bridge demo shown whenMarvel’s Avengerswas first announced, as well as a range of single-player and co-op missions.Marvel’s Avengers' Helicarrier hub will also be explorable, plus players will get an early look at the game’sHarm Room horde mode. It should be more than enough content for players to learn whether or not to carry on with their pre-order.
This weekend’s exclusive PS4 beta won’t be the only one, for those PC and Xbox gamers wondering if they’re being left behind. Aclosed beta for pre-orderers on PC and Xbox Onewill run between August 14 and August 16. An open beta for all PS4 players will also run during that weekend.
Of course, a PS4-exclusive beta isn’t likely to shift the conversation away from frustrations overMarvel’s Avengers' PS4-exclusive content. Those frustrated that Square Enix would offer a playableSpider-Man as exclusive contentto one platform will likely only be further incensed over a PS4 exclusive beta. But at least now fans of the game will be able to share their experiences and dilute the ongoing controversy, for better or worse.
Marvel’s Avengersreleases September 4 on PC, PS4, Stadia, and Xbox One, with PS5 and Xbox Series X versions also in development.
