[i]Guild Wars[/i] developer ArenaNet announced today the beta test schedule for their upcoming add-on pack, [i]Factions.[/i] The developer announced that every current player would be allowed to participate in the event, along with up to three additional friends via an in-game invitation system. This opens the beta up to a heretofore unheard of pool of up to three million potential players.

“To be able to open up Guild Wars Factions and share this one-time experience with so many people is truly a thrill,” said Mike O’Brien, ArenaNet co-founder. “[i]Guild Wars[/i] players will get the opportunity to play Factions before the game’s release while sharing the game with up to three of their friends. We can’t wait for the feedback from the
seasoned players, as well as those who join us for the first time on March 24.”

ArenaNet also announced that a pre-order of [i]Factions[/i] will be available, and will contain additional access to the beta servers along with special souvenirs only available to pre-order participants. For more information, please see the [a] www.guildwars.com [aa][i]Official Guild Wars Web Site[/i][/aa]