Update (Tue 23rd Jul, 2024): If you missed this the first time around, don't worry! All Xbox users can sign up for the New World: Aeternum beta via the Xbox Insider Hub right now. Keep in mind this is first-come, first-served and only available in certain regions (the full list can be found over at Xbox Wire). Here's what you'll need to do:
- Go to the Xbox Insider Hub app on your Xbox console (you may need to install it)
- Go to Previews and then New World: Aeternum
- Hit Join
- Wait to be directed to the Microsoft Store
- Install the New World: Aeternum Closed Beta
The dates for the beta have changed a little compared to our original post (seen below). Now, the beta will begin on Thursday July 25th at 9am PT / 12pm ET / 5pm BST and end at the same times on Wednesday, July 31st.
Original story (Fri 14th Jun, 2024): Amazon is bringing its open-world RPG New World: Aeternum to Xbox Series X and S this October, and if you want to try it ahead of time, sign-ups are now live for a closed beta taking place in July.
To participate, you'll need to head over to the official New World website, where all the instructions are outlined. The beta will take place on July 11th at 9am PT until July 17th at 9AM PT for those who are lucky enough to be selected.
"This invite-only cross-play test will let console players in North America and Europe customize a character, experiment with unique weapons, and explore vast, supernatural zones before New World: Aeternum releases on Oct. 15. Players will also have the opportunity to try end-game content."
For those who haven't been keeping track, New World: Aeternum is described as an "enhanced version" of Amazon's MMORPG title that first launched back in September of 2021, with this edition including the New World base game, the "Rise of the Angry Earth" expansion, and various new and revamped content.
It sounds like Amazon is trying to put a much bigger focus on solo play in New World: Aeternum, so we're keen to check out this closed beta next month and see how it all shakes out. After that, the Xbox release is set for October 15th!