Microsoft Game Studios and Ensemble Studio today announced that 10,000 gamers will be invited to participate in Ensemble's online multiplayer test of Age of Mythology. Between Friday, June 21 and Sunday, June 30, gamers will be able to sign up for a chance to be among the first to experience the wrath of the gods. This alpha version of Age of Mythology will contain two of the nine civilizations that will be available when the game is released this October. Up to four players will be able to compete head-to-head as a follower of either Zeus or Poseidon on one of two multiplayer maps. This limited alpha version of the game will be available to qualified testers in early July.

For more information, and to sign up (starting Friday, June 21), please visit the official Age of Mythology site, or the Ensemble Studios website.

Using familiar elements of classical mythology, Age of Mythology casts players as one of nine unique civilizations from ancient Greek, Norse and Egyptian mythologies. Players can reinforce their armies with mythological creatures like Cyclopes and Minotaurs or call upon the mighty powers of gods such as Zeus to rain down lightning bolts on unsuspecting enemies. Age of Mythology also incorporates Ensemble Studios' trademark features from previous Age of Empires games, including a compelling economic model, a massive army and battle system, unequaled artificial intelligence, random maps, intuitive gameplay and extreme attention to detail.

Age of Mythology's 3-D engine delivers impressive graphics in a fully 3-D environment, including beautiful waves and water, lifelike rolling terrain, realistic sunlight, and lush forests. In-game cinematics create a seamless, story-based and character-driven campaign which features 36 scenarios. In addition, the game features incredible special effects with astonishing levels of detail, including waterspouts, infernos, snowstorms, tornadoes and earthquakes.