So it's with great pleasure that today we take the next step in our open development and partnership with you. On Monday, July 26th, we will be releasing the NS2 Playable Alpha to all the Special Edition pre-orderers, on Steam. Like with NS1, this is not the complete game, this is the first of many versions. Here's what you can expect on that day:

NS2 Alpha 1 content

One of our shipping maps (ns2_tram), plus some smaller "test" maps
Marine, with Rifle, Pistol, SwitchAx, Grenade Launcher
Skulks, Gorges, Lerks and their basic movement abilities and weapons
Marine armory "buy" screen for purchasing new equipment
Alien evolution menu for choosing your lifeform and upgrades
Basic marine and alien commander interfaces including MACs, Drifters
Much of our final sounds, artwork, animations, etc.

You have to buy the special edition to play the alpha and once the alpha is out there will not be a chance to get the special edition.