Try out the all-new multiplayer modes of Titanfall 2 for free this weekend

Beginning on August 19 and running through the weekend, the initial public test will feature two maps. The first is Boomtown, a “secret underground facility” with rooftops perfect for ambushes and snipers, while the second is “Homestead,” which EA describes as “a series of raised, rocky plateaus,” similar to the original Titanfall‘s excellent “Boneyard” map.

Modes for the first technical test include the new “Bounty Hunt,” which mixes wave-based AI combat with traditional multiplayer, and the 8v8 Pilots vs. Pilots.” The latter may not be the best way to experience what makes Titanfall 2 so unique, but it should highlight Respawn’s knack for gun combat.

The test will feature two different Titans, Ion and Scorch, both new to Titanfall 2. Unfortunately, if you want to participate in the public test at all, you’re going to have to play on Xbox One or PlayStation 4. Respawn founder Vince Zampella blamed the decision to exclude the PC for the test on “hardware variety” and other inconsistencies across the platform. But he also singled out PC players’ tendency to leak other information through data-mining, and since Titanfall 2 features a full story and single-player campaign, it simply wasn’t worth the risk.

Should you miss the technical test this weekend, you’ll still  have a chance to try out Titanfall 2 prior to launch. The following weekend (beginning on August 26), players will be able to try out all previous content, as well as the “Amped Hardpoint” mode and the “Forward Base Kodai” map.

Do you plan on picking up Titanfall 2 when it releases for Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC on October 28? Let us know in the comments.