Pearl Abyss announces closed beta test signups for its new arena fighter, Shadow Arena, are open! Shadow Arena itself will be available to play from 27 February to 8 March. You can sign up right here. The game’s full launch is expected this year.

40 players will be put against each other in a ruthless competition to be the last person standing on the battlefield. Choose from one of nine playable characters in the beta and utilize each of their own unique fighting styles! Players will need to hunt monsters and collect loot in order to upgrade their gear and gain buffs. You’ll still need impeccable skill execution and well-timed evasive tactics to turn the fights during critical moments to obtain victory! Who will be the top of the pack?

Shadow Arena was originally a game mode within Black Desert, before evolving into its own stand-alone game. The foundation of Black Desert has been laid, but Shadow Arena has drawn from MOBA, battle royale and MMO genres to create an arena fighter. Two gameplay modes are available: solo and team. Will you be the expert lone wolf, or find a deadly combo with friends in team mode? Enjoy a distinctive co-op mode with a new style of PvP action.

Get a taste of Shadow Arena in its closed beta phase before its expected release in the first half of 2020! It will be on PC first and console later. You should also check out the interview we did with Kwangsam Kim, the game’s lead producer.