Beta testing of Company of Heroes 2 will commence next week, announces the SEGA Blog, saying multiplayer closed beta testing of Relic Entertainment's strategy sequel gets underway on April 2nd as they gear up for the game's June 25th release date. Word is:

The closed beta playtest features the game’s critically acclaimed competitive multiplayer and skirmish gameplay, giving players access to six maps, 1v1, 2v2, 3v3 and 4v4 competitive gameplay, as well as the ability to play alone or with teammates against the AI. Players also get access to the first 40 levels of progression, and the ability to customize their loadouts to suit their play style using the all new Army Customizer.

This first phase of the closed beta will be open to pre-order customers only. There will be a second phase in the coming weeks where a wider audience will get a chance to take part. For more information keep watching http://www.companyofheroes.com.

The Company of Heroes 2 closed beta will be hosted on Steam and utilizes Steamworks match-making and friend lists. Players need the free Steam client to redeem closed beta access keys and play.