Sierra Studios sends word that sign-ups for the Empire Earth beta test have now opened, allowing you to participate in testing this millennia-spanning 3D RTS that is nearing completion at Stainless Steel Studios. You can register online until August 13 and, if accepted into the "select group of beta testers," will have to download the 450 MB beta version, but another way to enter the beta testing program is to pre-order the game at several participating retail stores which will stock the beta version from September 1, and "thousands of gamers" will be able to join this way.