WEBZEN, a global developer and publisher of free-to-play MMO games, is pleased to announce that the initial beta test for the new Asian fantasy MMORPG ASTA – The War of Tears and Winds has begun. This first beta phase is set to last for one week, ending on Tuesday November 10^th, with a second beta phase scheduled for late November. All players with an active WEBZEN account can freely access the beta and check out this latest addition to the Webzen.com game portal.

The initial beta test gives players a first insight into the game’s settings and features, allowing them to progress up to level 50 and experience every facet the game has to offer. Players can immerse themselves in a beautifully crafted fantasy world inspired by Asian myths and legends, in which two factions vie for control and power: The Asu, followers of the goddess Arita, and the Ora, the disciples of the dark god Umra. Players can choose between 3 races per faction, and a total of 5 distinct classes.

ASTA offers the very best of traditional MMORPG gameplay, where seasoned veterans and beginning players alike will feel right at home. Classic features such as customizable attributes and talent trees give players maximum customization options for their characters, allowing them to be honed to perfection. The unique Divine Spirit System adds an additional customization element, allowing players to pinpoint specific attributes and values of their characters to enhance further.

Each faction has 7 areas to explore (excluding starting areas which differ from race to race), filled with unique characters and enemies, alongside intriguing and enthralling storylines and cooperative public quests. While protected in the earlier areas, players will also encounter those from the opposing faction in later areas, allowing for open world PvP. All throughout their progression towards the higher levels, players will have the opportunity to venture into dungeons (both on their own and as part of a group), team arenas and battlegrounds. All of these features can be accessed via an automated matchmaking system. Additionally, daily events such as Class Arena matches and public raids will ensure that there’s never a dull moment, and offer players the chance for some extra rewards.

Interested players are invited to check out ASTA’s official website found at http://asta.webzen.com for more information, and the option to register for an account. As this is the initial beta test, players are encouraged to visit the official forum to leave feedback and report any bugs they may encounter: http://forum.webzen.com/forum/en/asta-english.

ASTA can also be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Astammo