Neverwinter releases its open beta on April 30

Forgotten Realms based free-to-play MMO Neverwinter will open its doors to adventurers on April 30th. That's when the open beta begins, signalling the awkward period in the free-to-play lifecycle where a game is out, but sort of isn't, despite the fact that it is. Cryptic Studios have also released a new trailer - one that answers the question, "What is Neverwinter?" It certainly isn't whatever the weather is doing at the moment, which, as we move into April, seems more like Foreverwinter.

For closed beta testers, another test weekend is due to take place on April 12th. This will be players' first chance to try out the profession system. According to Cryptic's press release, "Founding members may simultaneously pursue four different professions: Leadership, Mailsmithing, Platesmithing and Leatherworking."

Once the full open beta is live, Cryptic promise no more character wipes or restricted access. Because, as I say, the game will essentially have been released. Except it won't. Except it will. Except it... *fade to black*

Phil Savage
Editor-in-Chief

Phil has been writing for PC Gamer for nearly a decade, starting out as a freelance writer covering everything from free games to MMOs. He eventually joined full-time as a news writer, before moving to the magazine to review immersive sims, RPGs and Hitman games. Now he leads PC Gamer's UK team, but still sometimes finds the time to write about his ongoing obsessions with Destiny 2, GTA Online and Apex Legends. When he's not levelling up battle passes, he's checking out the latest tactics game or dipping back into Guild Wars 2. He's largely responsible for the whole Tub Geralt thing, but still isn't sorry.