Riot Games is expanding its user base for the closed beta of the highly anticipated online multiplayer session-based game League of Legends. Testers will receive special in-game rewards for participating and providing feedback in the closed beta.League of Legends, which was nominated for the Game Critics Awards Best Strategy Game of E3, will be available for free on Windows PC in September 2009. A Collector’s Pack that contains exclusive items, such as two unique Champion skins, as well as a number of Champions, Runes and Riot Points, will be available for $29.99 at www.leagueoflegends.com and at major retail outlets.
Gamers who would like to get a sneak peek at the game and provide valuable feedback in the development process are invited to sign up for the closed beta by visiting www.leagueoflegends.com. To reward testers, Riot will offer an exclusive champion skin that can be used in the final version of the game. Testers that participated in the closed beta prior to July 14, 2009 will also have their screen names permanently listed in the League of Legends developer credits.
"By expanding the pool of beta users we strive to support the strong community following itching to jump right into the game," Brandon Beck, co-founder and CEO, Riot Games, said.
"We truly value the input and early support our community has provided, so it’s only fair that they get credit and rewarded for helping to mold the game!"
League of Legends combines elements of role-playing and strategy genres with addictive battle action that brings accessible, replayable and competitive gameplay into a whimsical universe that deepens with the player’s commitment. Built by a veteran development team and the original creators of DotA Allstars, one of the world’s most popular player-made mods, League of Legends is a unique and genre bending experience. The game will be operated as a live service that will be frequently updated with new features, champions, maps and additional content as suggested by the community.
A player in League of Legends takes on the role of a Summoner – a gifted spell caster who has the power to bring forth a champion to fight as his or her avatar in Valoran’s Fields of Justice. As the Summoner controls the champion in combat, it also influences the outcome of the match through the use of spells, masteries and runes. Once a match is over, the Summoner gains Influence Points and Riot Points that can be used to assist their champions in future battles. Influence Points will be earned by simply playing the game, while Riot Points will be available for purchase with real money.
League of Legends will offer endless permutations of builds, strategies and combinations that will make the game extremely competitive and interesting for those focused on competitive play.