Bungie opens up Destiny beta to everyone across all platforms

Bungie, creators of the famous Halo gaming series, have opened up the Beta to Destiny for everyone. Previously only available to those who got their hands on a Beta code, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One and Xbox 360 owners can now head on to PSN and the Xbox marketplace to access the beta for free.

It appears as though Xbox gamers will require a Live Gold membership to play, but PS users will only require a PlayStation Plus membership “for some activities,” according to Bungie. Note: trying to access the Beta on a 360 without a Live Gold membership will result in errors.

The beta is scheduled to end on Sunday night, so opening the floodgates on the early version should both help Bungie fine tune the experience before its expected release on September 9th, as well as help prospective Guardians decided which console to grab the game for, if at all.

Bungie has also been scheduling some special events for players throughout the beta, and this weekend will be no exception. Iron Banner events bring players together for multiplayer matches with special rewards, and Bungie is saying that anyone who logs on after 2pm EDT tomorrow will receive an exclusive in-game emblem that carries over to the commercial release for free.

You can find the Iron Banner event times below, pre-order info and be sure to check out our daily game roundups for all the best gaming deals across all platforms.

Destiny Beta – Iron Banner Event Times:

Friday, July 25

• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Saturday, July 26

• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Destiny Preorders:

Amazon – PlayStation 3/4:

Exclusive content for PlayStation 4 owners includes the Exodus Blue Competitive Multiplayer Map, Dust Palace Strike, Weapons, Ships and Gear.

GameStop – PlayStation 3/4, Xbox 360/One:

Preorder Destiny and receive the GameStop Exclusive Upgraded Sparrow Vehicle!

Sparrows are rapid deployment vehicles designed to get you where you need to go at breakneck speed. Along with the custom paintjob, this exclusive, prototype version features upgraded initial acceleration and higher top speed than the standard model. To compensate for the boost, the hull has also been fitted with enhanced armor plating.

*Upgraded Sparrow paintjob exclusive until 1/1/15. Better acceleration, higher top speed and higher durability plating can be attained through gameplay.