For PS Plus subscribers, the weekend may already be spoken for, as the global beta for Monster Hunter: World will be available from tomorrow to Tuesday (9-12 December).

The beta will offer up three quests, playable in both single and multiplayer modes, as well as a training area where hunters will be able to try out all 14 weapon types before deciding which one to take on the hunt.

Online play will allow hunters from all around the world to unite on a quest, with matchmaking options that allow them to play with their friends. During online multiplayer, players can communicate not only using voice chat but with chat stickers and gestures in-game, if that is the kind of thing that rocks your boat.  

Along with the ability to choose between twelve pre-set hunter appearances; those embarking on an adventure in single player mode will also have six Palico companions to select from. Each pre-set, however, is just a small preview of the hunter and Palico customisation options available in the upcoming full game release, which is set for 26 January 2018.  

Just in case being amongst the first to play the game wasn’t temptation enough, players who participate in the beta will be rewarded with special bonus items that can be transferred over to the full game when it launches early next year.

Players who complete any of the three quests will receive a special face paint customisation option to apply to their hunter. In addition, each quest offers a different pack of consumable items such as Max Potions, Lifepowder and Shock Traps, which players will receive by completing the quest.

However, in order to receive the in-game items in the final game, players will need to ensure they are using the same SEN ID as they used to play the beta, whose availability is as follows:                                       

PS Store release:             Fri, December 8th, 00:00

Beta start:                         Sat, December 9th, 17:00

Beta end:                          Tue, December 12th,16:59

PS Store removal:            Tue, December 12th,  17:00