Open beta testing is now underway for Avalon Heroes, a subscription-free online RPG/RTS game from German developer burda:ic. The game is due for a full launch next month, and word is burda:ic will be active in e-sports in the future:

The games publisher burda:ic today launched the Open Beta phase of the gripping free-2-play online RTS RPG Avalon Heroes. All adventurers who registered at www.alaplaya.net will now be able to participate in breathtaking battles for approximately ten days, taking the side of either Oriens or Aeonia. Ambitious testers will profit from an augmented EXP rate, allowing them to proceed faster in the game. However, to give everybody an equal chance, all characters, their game progress, and the increased EXP rate will be reset when the game is officially released in February of 2010. Avalon Heroes is also closely associated with the Electronic Sports League (ESL) because, in the future, burda:ic will sponsor Europe-wide tournaments, leagues, and events.

For more information, please visit the official teaser website www.avalon.alaplaya.net.