Halo Wars 2's second multiplayer beta test will let you dive into Blitz mode on January 20

If you're chomping at the bit to jump into Halo Wars 2, you'll have a chance to dive in early soon with the game's second multiplayer beta test. Set to kick off on January 20 on both Xbox One and Windows 10, this beta test will focus specifically on a certain new game mode coming along with the sequel: Blitz.

So what is Blitz mode? Essentially, it's a card-based take on the traditional RTS formula. Here's how Dan Ayoub, Studio Head of Strategy Games at 343 Industries, describes it on Xbox Wire:

Blitz is our new twist on RTS gameplay that combines the deck building and split-second decision making of card-based strategy play with explosive tactical combat in the Halo universe. Your card deck, along with your faction leader, are your greatest resources as you assemble a collection of air, ground and infantry units and seek to out-think and out-maneuver your opponents on the battlefield.

Throughout the beta, you'll get to try out Blitz against other players on the Proving Grounds map in either 1v1, 2v2, or 3v3 modes. As a bonus, you'll be able to snag some rewards in the full game by participating. Simply logging into the beta will reward you with 1 free Blitz card pack, and completing your first match will reward you with another. Both will be redeemable once the full game launches on February 21.

Again, the beta is set to kick off on January 20 and will run through January 30. And if you want to get ready for Halo Wars 2's impending launch, you can go ahead and pre-order the game now.

See at the Microsoft Store

Dan Thorp-Lancaster

Dan Thorp-Lancaster is the former Editor-in-Chief of Windows Central. He began working with Windows Central, Android Central, and iMore as a news writer in 2014 and is obsessed with tech of all sorts. You can follow Dan on Twitter @DthorpL and Instagram @heyitsdtl