Microsoft has just announced that Halo Wars 2 has just entered Open Beta.

This test is focused around the Blitz mode where players must build a deck then use the cards to deploy units. It adds a twist to the classic RTS gameplay where players much capture and hold points on the map.

Microsoft has confirmed that this mode has several PvP options: 1v1, 2v2 and 3v3 matches are all possible. The open beta test supports matchmaking so that all players can explore what the game has to offer.

Sadly, only the Blitz mode is available in this beta test. All progress made from this test won’t be carried forwards to the final release of the game in February.

Taking part in the test does reward players with two card packs however. One pack is given when players first log into Halo Wars 2 and the second is for completing your first match.

343 Industries has released an in-depth blog post detailing the Blitz mode. The full details can be found on the official website here.

Blitz Mode

This is a new mode to the Halo Wars series and is focused around building a strong deck. Players can create any style deck they wish by selecting between a variety of air, ground and infantry units.

The aim of the game is simple, players need to capture a location in order to score points for their team. Team can win by collecting the max number of points or by having the most points when the timer runs out.

It’s been confirmed that this beta test will contain all of the leaders that will be in the full game. Each leader can have three different decks saved to them and players will be able to create them from scratch. There also seems to be some default starting decks for each leader.

The Halo Wars 2 Open Beta test will be ending on January 30th and is available for PC and Xbox One owners.