The first beta test for Halo: Reach on PC will begin next week, Halo developer 343 Industries has confirmed. It's not locked down, however, as plans could change. Still, next week is when the studio is looking to release the first beta test on PC.
The beta test, or "flight," will first be released for a "small subsection" of Halo Insider members--you can sign up for the free Halo Insider program here.
"We're starting more modestly because we've got quite a few levers to pull and we want to ensure our delivery pipeline runs smoothly, our communications are clear, and that participants can properly provide their feedback on the build," 343 said in a blog post. "Since there are so many pieces and levers that need testing, verification, and appropriate approvals, we need to take our time to ensure we're sending out a quality flight to our Halo Insiders."
The development team is close to finalizing a version of Halo: Reach for PC for the beta, but it is still "going through the test process."
"We're still targeting to release next week and will be sharing the details with the public, so even if you aren't selected for the flight, you'll know what's happening. Stay tuned for more details throughout!" 343 says.
Halo: Reach was playable at E3 2019 in Los Angeles this week, but this first beta will mark the first time the wider public will have a chance to check it out.
Reach is coming to PC as part of Microsoft's plans to launch The Master Chief Collection on PC. The rest of the releases will follow in chronological order, spanning Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo 2, Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, and Halo 4. Each game will be sold for $10 USD each, except for ODST which is $5 USD. The beta releases for each title are free.
Reach is also coming to Xbox One and it'll release on consoles through a beta test as well, though a release date has not been announced.
The next big Halo game is Halo Infinite, which launches in Holiday 2020 for the Xbox One family of systems--which includes Scarlett--as well as PC. Recently, Microsoft confirmed more details about it including split-screen and LAN support, as well as beta tests and more.
