Of course even within that framework there are some limitations; the beta is exclusive to pre-order holders or those lucky enough to snag a code through Twitter or some other type of giveaway, and it does open up to Xbox players starting on the 23rd so they won’t be completely shut out like with the alpha.

But, those who do happen to get into the beta one way or another are reportedly in for a treat, as Bungie has put together a substantial sampling of their forthcoming game. We know that the beta will include four story chapters, four multiplayer maps, and one Strike mission, but that’s been the extent of our knowledge thus far. However, in a recent interview with Eurogamer, Bungie’s David Dague (better known by the handle Deej) shared a little more regarding what players can expect.

In many respects, Deej and the team at Bungie want players to uncover Destiny as they play, so he kept firm details to a minimum. He wouldn’t say how many modes or story missions players can anticipate, nor did he reveal what the new level cap is now that players are starting from level one. [NOTE: Bungie has not decided if players’ progression will carry over to the final game.]

To that point, though, the Destiny beta will thrust players into the very beginning of the game. That means players who might have wrung the alpha dry of content will still find new areas in Old Russia to explore, new missions to complete, and some more customization options.

At the same time, Bungie didn’t want to alienate those PS3, Xbox 360, and Xbox One gamers who never got to explore the alpha. And so a lot of the test’s content will feel familiar — taking players through Old Russia once again and introducing them to the world Bungie has created.

For that matter, alpha veterans may not see much in the way of gameplay or balance changes, as Bungie feels pretty confident they’ve honed in on a feel that they like. Some were critical of the fast-paced, high death rate tone struck by the Crucible multiplayer, and Deej reveals that was by design.

And since it’s all anyone thinks of when they talk about Destiny, Deej did address the Peter Dinklage dialogue changes, saying that players will understand how it differs as soon as they trigger the game’s navigation mode. We assume that’s the first time players will hear Dinklage speak as the AI companion Ghost, which also leads us to believe the actor’s delivery will be different this time around.

One element that will be different for all beta participants is the Destiny companion app, which has undergone some significant changes since last we saw it. The app is actually available for download right now on the Android store and will let players - when they do get into the beta - keep track of their Guardian’s level, quest completion, and inventory. Obviously, it’s not revolutionary stuff, but the app should prove useful nonetheless.

While those who did get their hands on the PS4 alpha for Destiny might be disappointed that the beta isn’t taking them to new, uncharted worlds (like the Moon, or Mars), it’s important to highlight that this is, first and foremost, a test for Bungie. It’s a chance for them to see how the game works with their presumed day 1 player base, and to see how players respond.

But rest assured that there appears to be plenty of new content incorporated into the beta that veterans won’t feel completely shut out. We certainly enjoyed the alpha enough to spend more time in Bungie’s new world.

What are you hoping to see more of in the Destiny beta? What platform are you planning to play on?

Destiny releases September 9, 2014 for PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.

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Source: Eurogamer