Thank you for your interest in the EverQuest beta testing. The EverQuest beta is broken up into several phases, the second of which (Phase One) is currently underway. The last phase will be open to the public, but the phases before that will be closed and only involve those people whom we accept. We have begun the first phases with a small number of external testers, and then as we begin new phases, more and more people will become involved. It is important that if you wish to be involved in the beta that you fill out the application. The last phase before the public beta will be open to everyone who has filled out the application.
Some Questions and Answers
Has the EverQuest beta already started?
Yes, the closed beta has already begun. A small testing phase (called Phase .5) began right after E3, and Phase One began July 15, 1998. We are still in the process of sending out Phase One beta CDs.
When will Phase Two start, how many people will be involved, and will it require an NDA?
Phase Two, like Phase One, will require an NDA. It will involve approximately 1,000 testers. It will begin when we are satisfied we've accomplished and learned what we can with the 300 Phase One testers.
I've heard that the closed beta will be open to just a small group of applicants... why should I apply?
There will be just the one application for all phases of closed testing, so if you want to be involved in any of the tests, you'll need to apply. Also, the last phase of closed testing will involve everyone who applied, regardless of qualifications and experience.
Are you referring to the open beta?
No. The last phase of closed testing, prior to the public beta, will be open to everyone who took the time to apply. We feel that even if we don't choose you for whatever reason for the first phases, you did take the time to fill out an app, and you deserve something for that.
Speaking of qualifications and experience, what kind of people are you looking for?
For the first phases, we'll be pretty picky. We're looking for people who have a lot of experience playing online RPGs, single player RPGs, and MUDs. Also, experience in previous commercial beta tests will be a plus. But keep in mind that with each successive phase we'll relax the qualifications more and more.
How many people will you be accepting in total?
We don't have a specific number determined as of yet. The very first phase will involve approximately 300 people, yet the final closed phase will include whomever applied during the time period we are accepting applications. Each successive phase will involve more and more of the applicants.
When can we fill out the application?
Does the testing start at the same time? You can fill out the application now - please use the link to the form at the bottom of this phase. The application has been up since March 13, 1998, and as stated above, external closed testing has been active since immediately following E3 this year.
What if I fill out the application, but later change my email address, or other pertinent information?
Just fill out the form again in its entirety. So do I lose my spot as a result? First phase beta testers will maintain their spot regardless of any change to their application. However, those beyond the first phase will find their application adjusted each time they re-submit an application. In other words, don't re-submit your application unless you have to. Please do NOT send any adjustments to the webmaster, or anyone else; all adjustments must be made in the form of a new application. Sorry.