Gamers itching to play Dynasty Warriors Online and bash and smash their way through the Three Kingdoms of ancient China get their chance this month. Aeria will launch Dynasty Warriors Online’s closed beta on Oct. 12, and players who want to be among the first to play can make it happen through an exclusive beta key giveaway on GameSpot.

From Oct. 1-7, or until beta keys run out, GameSpot will offer its community beta keys for first access to the Oct. 12 beta. GameSpot readers who receive a beta key will have two days of access before Aeria expands the testing to other applicants.

"If destroying armies and players alike with awesome weapons while rocking out to guitar riffs sounds fun, then Dynasty Warriors Online is your new favorite game," said Brian DeSanti, Associate Producer, Aeria Games. "Offering this exclusive beta key giveaway with GameSpot gives knowledgeable gamers a chance to get the first look at this great MMO. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone playing Dynasty Warriors Online, but as we move into Closed Beta Testing, only limited spots are available."

Players who miss out on the beta keys will still get their chance to apply for the closed beta at http://dynastywarriors.aeriagames.com/ and those who are accepted will be able to jump into the game on Oct. 14. Dynasty Warriors Online offers players in North America and Europe the classic Dynasty Warriors gameplay experience, which sold more than 18 million copies worldwide, in a fast-paced massively multiplayer online (MMO) environment. As with all of Aeria Games’ titles, Dynasty Warriors Online will be free to play.

Dynasty Warriors Online is an action-oriented tactical combat game, focusing on frenetic fighting and deadly showdowns against giant hordes on sprawling battlefields. Player-created characters interact with historical generals and warriors from China’s famous "Three Kingdoms" period. Choosing from a wide variety of weapons, players defend their allegiances to warring factions and battle online to determine who will conquer Ancient China.

To sign up for closed beta, players must have an Aeria Games account, free from http://www.aeriagames.com and then visit http://dynastywarriors.aeriagames.com to submit to the beta. Players will be notified by email and then allowed to download the game client.