Smite Xbox One Beta Registration Now Open
Those who want to sign up for the upcoming beta for the Xbox One version of Smite can now register for the early test of the game at the developer’s official website. All users need to sign up is a valid email address, although you will need to have an Xbox Live account to download the beta key. The site notes though that not all those who sign up will receive a beta key, as beta testers will be selected randomly. Successful applicants can expect to get their keys at some point in the coming months.
Developed by Hi-Rez Studios, Smite is a third person action MOBA. It sees players taking on the role of a god in a large combat arena, battling both other player-controlled gods and less powerful A.I. enemies. Gameplay revolves around two teams of up to five players battling it out, with each team awarded gold at the beginning of a round to buy special items and upgrades. There are a total of 61 gods to choose from, including those from Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Norse mythology as well as deities from China and the Hindu religion. It was originally launched on PC in March of 2014 and was announced during E3 last year that it would be one of several exclusive independent titles making their way to Microsoft’s console in 2015.
Since its release, Smite has received a strong critical reception with reviews praising it for its graphics, gameplay and unique take on the MOBA genre. It currently holds a score of 84 on Metacritic. However, the game did cause some controversy in 2012 from Hindu religious leaders who considered the inclusion of the gods Kali, Agni and Vamana to be offensive. Their complaints centered on the presentation of the deities as well as the fact that they could be controlled by human players. Hi-Rez dismissed the complaints, stating that they have taken inspiration for the various gods in the game from various sources.