ArenaNet:Developer updates/20070403

[Dev Update] Become an ATS Tester! -- 03 April 2007
ArenaNet is moving into closed beta testing of the Automated Tournament System (ATS). We have a need for players who can help us stress test the system for a one-week period. While we cannot bring everyone who applies into the test, we will be inviting a few hundred to help out. Here are the details about how you can apply!

Who is Eligible?


 * Any Guild Wars player who owns a copy of the game is eligible to sign up to be randomly selected as an ATS Tester. There are no age limits, as long as you meet the age set by your local ratings board (e.g., 13+ in the U.S., 12+ in Europe, etc.)

What are the computer system requirements for testers?


 * We ask that only those who meet the Guild Wars Nightfall recommended system specifications apply for this test. You will be downloading a new dat file, and so your computer must have sufficient space to accommodate a new copy of Guild Wars.

When will we be testing?


 * Test Dates:
 * Friday, April 6
 * Saturday, April 7
 * Monday, April 9
 * Tuesday, April 10
 * Wednesday, April 11
 * Thursday, April 12
 * Friday, April 13


 * Test Times:
 * Noon until 3:00 PM Pacific Time (19:00 to 22:00 GMT) each day

What will we be testing?


 * You will be testing Hero Battles. This means you will be playing as your character with three Heroes of your choice versus another single player with his or her three Heroes. We need the maximum number of people testing at any given time, so please sign up only if you are available during the dates and hours posted. Note that this is mid-day in the United States (with our apologies -- it's when the test works best for the Dev Team). Please do not sign up unless you can make the majority of the test days and stay for the full three-hour period.

How do I sign up?


 * Please send an email to testaccounts@arena.net. You must use the subject line "ATS Testing Application" to be considered.


 * You Must Provide:


 * Your full name
 * Your full home address
 * Your fan forum handle(s)
 * Your age
 * A valid email address to use for the test account user name
 * Your current Guild Wars account user name (email address)

Who will be selected?


 * We will randomly select a group of a few hundred ATS testers. We will send you access information by return email within the next few days.

When will I hear back about whether I will be selected as a tester?


 * We will be setting up accounts through Friday of this week or perhaps Monday of next week. The acceptance email will come from ArenaNet Test Team (testaccounts@arena.net). We will send you instructions on obtaining the proper game client, along with your account password.

Important Notes:


 * Beyond what we request above, we will not ask for your Guild Wars password or other account-related information in relation to this test opportunity or any other. Be secure – do not provide that information to anyone, at any time!


 * Please do not write to follow up on your application; we will contact you if you are selected.

Thank You!

We appreciate your willingness to help out, and we look forward to the ATS Testing!