Neverwinter’s Open Beta Has Been Dated

Perfect World Entertainment and Cryptic Studios' newest massively multiplayer online role-playing game, Neverwinter, has received a date for the start of its open beta. To give prospective players a chance to acquaint themselves with the world of Neverwinter before the beta, they've released a slew of new screenshots and a trailer explaining the story behind the game.

The game brings the Forgotten Realms of Dungeons & Dragons lore to life, giving players a chance to become a hero of the northern city, Neverwinter. The combat is meant to be more action-packed and seeks to move away from the genre's Tab-to-Target mechanics, which the folks at Perfect World and Cryptic hope will give Neverwinter the edge to rise above other MMORPGs.

Neverwinter will also be completely free-to-play, packing a lot of content without asking anything of players other than their time. Or, if you want to become a Hero of the North, you can purchase the big package that includes over 18 items, costs $200, and gives you a kickass armored spider mount by going to the official site!

But, if you want to try the game out before you shell out a lot of money, the open beta has been dated for April 30th, 2013. Founders, or those who have purchased starter packs, will get early access to the game via a newly-added 60-hour Beta Weekend 4. These Founders will also get to enjoy the ability to pursue 4 different professions at once, which are Leadership, Mailsmithing, Platesmithing, and Leatherworking. However you decide to participate, it should be in an interesting new MMORPG experience for all.

Watch the trailer and peep the screens below to get some of that Neverwinter flavor! Mmm, tastes like promising fantasy MMORPG!