'Monster Hunter World' beta news and updates: Beta schedule and features

A promotional poster for the upcoming video game by Capcom, "Monster Hunter World" Facebook/monsterhunter

The release date of the highly anticipated open-world adventure game by Capcom, "Monster Hunter World," is a little over a month away. The developers have been generous enough to grant excited players some time to experience the game for closed beta testing, and so far, the initial impressions have been generally positive. These are some tips that will ensure players to optimize their playthroughs during the brief window of the closed beta testing.

According to reports, the PlayStation Pro exclusive beta already concluded last Dec. 12. However, for those who have successfully signed up to play the beta, they will be able to do so on Dec. 22 until Dec. 26, starting and ending at 12:01 pm EST. For those who want to maximize the time they have with the game, they will be able to pre-download the beta version as early as Dec. 18, so they can play the game right away. 

It is notable to mention that the beta will only be available to all PlayStation 4 users. 

If that were not enough, those who will be playing the beta will be receiving in-game rewards upon purchasing and playing the full version. There will be some free face paint, which is an additional customization perk for players' characters, as well as the Beginner, Intermediate, and Expert Packs. These packs contain some survival tools and resources so players can have a head start when exploring the perilous lands of "Monster Hunter World."  

Other reports reveal that players will be needing at least 5.9 GB of hard disk space on their PlayStation 4. The first major monster that players will encounter is The Great Jagras, which is a t-rex looking monster. As it turns out, Great Gargas is suitable for first-time players, and is considered to be one of the easier bosses in the game. The other bosses are Barroth and Anjanath, who will be slightly more difficult to beat. 

"Moster Hunter World" will be officially released on Jan. 26, 2018 for the PlayStation 4. PC owners will have to wait a bit longer. 

News
The Church needs to watch Channel 4's John Smyth documentary
The Church needs to watch Channel 4's John Smyth documentary

There is much more to reflect on in these two hours, presented in a very different way from previous communications, and a year later.

Myanmar junta orders an early Christmas
Myanmar junta orders an early Christmas

Locals are reportedly unhappy with the decree but know that failure to comply could lead to arrest.

BBC chooses Bradford Cathedral for Christmas Day broadcast
BBC chooses Bradford Cathedral for Christmas Day broadcast

The BBC has chosen Bradford Cathedral as the location for its live Christmas Day service in 2025, coinciding with its status as UK City of Culture and placing the historic cathedral firmly in the Christmas morning spotlight.

Presbyterian Church in Ireland under investigation amid safeguarding concerns
Presbyterian Church in Ireland under investigation amid safeguarding concerns

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has launched an inquiry into the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.