Bohemia Interactive follows the news that Arma III will be a Steam exclusive with word that an alpha version of the military shooter will be released one week from today on March 5th. The post outlines a release schedule where a beta will be released in Q2 of this year, followed by the game's official launch in Q3, and says that those who purchase the initial alpha are also entitled to these subsequent releases. Those interested in trying the game without the upfront financial commitment will be pleased to know that the paid alpha will be followed a week later by a free Alpha Lite version with no multiplayer or modification support, though this will be invite only, available from friends who buy the game as well as website giveaways. The lite version will expire on June 15th, and does not include access to the beta or the full game. They offer three paid versions with various perks: A standard edition for 24.99 EUR/19.99 GBP/32.99 USD, a Digital Deluxe Edition for 39.99 EUR/34.99 GBP/49.99 USD, and an Arma 3 Supporter Edition for 69.99 EUR/59.99 GBP/91.99 USD. Here's word on what the alpha will offer:

Featured in the Arma 3 Alpha are four showcase missions (Infantry, Vehicles, SCUBA and Helicopter), a limited subset of weapons and vehicles, two multiplayer scenarios, the powerful scenario editor and modding support. The 20 km² island of Stratis, which is positioned right off the coast from Arma 3’s main destination ‘Altis’ (270 km²), will form the backdrop of the Arma 3 Alpha.