Videogamer has word from Gearbox Software that Battleborn will require an online connection, even to play single-player modes. "Battleborn requires an internet connection to play, whether you're playing singleplayer, co-operatively with friends, or competitively against others. One of the reasons for this is that experience points earned in Battleborn's Story Mode carry over to Multiplayer and vice-versa," says the developer in a statement. "All XP earned through the game's persistent progression system contributes to leveling up individual Character Rank, as well as player profile Command Rank. In addition, maintaining data integrity is a major priority for the team, and online gameplay permits player's data to be accessible, even after experiencing a hardware malfunction or purchasing a new console." Speaking of solo play, the Gearbox Software website now offers a new Live Together or Die Alone Story Trailer from the upcoming teamplay shooter. Word is: "In the game's Story Mode, you're the commander of the Battleborn, an uneasy alliance of intergalatic [sic] heroes from five different factions who have banded together to stop a dark and mysterious enemy from destroying the universe. Under your command, the Battleborn must live together or die alone." Last but not least, the Battleborn website now offers a schedule for the game's promised open beta test, saying the PC beta will run from April 13th to April 18th, and preloads will begin on April 6th. Here are the details:

Calling all Badasses:
To get yourself ready for the Battleborn Open Beta, wrap your mind around what’s at stake. Set in the distant future, you’re fighting to save the last star in the universe. You have 25 heroes – each with wildly different personalities, powers, and play styles – at your disposal as you dip into the action-packed Story Mode or go 5 v 5 in Competitive Multiplayer matches. Experience the natural progression of the game as you rank up and unlock new heroes, skins, taunts, Helix mutations, and more during the Battleborn Open Beta.

The Basics:

WHEN IS IT? April 8 to April 18!

• April 8th at 10am PST (5pm UTC) – PS4
• April 13th at 10am PST (5pm UTC) – PS4, PC, and Xbox One
• Open Beta ends April 18th at 7am PST (2pm UTC)

PLATFORMS: PS4, PC, and Xbox One

PS4 BETA PLAYERS: As a thank you to PS4 players who participate in the Open Beta, they will receive the first Battleborn DLC Pack 1 and instant access to Alani upon release. In addition, PS4 players will have access to the Battleborn hero, Toby, during the Open Beta.

PRE-LOAD DATE: Rev up those consoles and computers: pre-load begins for all platforms on April 6th.

• PS4 – 5pm PST (12am UTC)
• PC – 10 am PST (5pm UTC)
• Xbox One – 5pm PST (12am UTC)

APPROXIMATE DOWNLOAD SIZE:

• PS4: 8.5GB
• PC: 12GB
• Xbox One: 11GB

WHERE TO DOWNLOAD: The Battleborn Open beta will be available through PlayStation Network, Steam, and the Microsoft Store. The Open Beta will be available to download straight from the store, no sign-up or code required.

AVAILABLE REGIONS: The Battleborn Open Beta will be available worldwide!

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