RTS fans rejoice, World in Conflict moved a step closer today, with two new announcements related to Massive's history-bending title - that portrays a Soviet invasion of the United States at the height of the Cold War.

Publisher Vivendi have today announced a beta event in support of the title. The beta test will kick-off on the first day of E3, July 11th, and will then run for a month offering players at home the opportunity to play the demos being given to members of the press and in Santa Monica next week.

Two maps will be included in the special test 'event', Town and Farmland, while we're also told to expect the game's tutorial to be present - offering players a gentle introduction to the game. Another exclusive map for those pre-ordering the title will also be present, 'Riviera', and multiplayer for up to 8x8 is supported. Sign up now via the official event site.

In related news, publisher Vivendi have also today offered the first release date for the new title, which will arrive on September 21st. In addition to this outing, a new edition will follow in due course. More soon.

By Luke Guttridge