As I type this, we're in the process of unleashing another batch of keys for the Crysis beta (See yesterday's post for details). Keys are limited and move fast, so make with the clicking and get yours before they're all gone for the day:


Many of you installed GameSpy's Comrade instant messenger recently to get an early heads-up as to when keys are being released. Comrade is deeply integrated with Crysis, so you and your buddies can use it to dominate the game. Here's a guide to some of the features:



Comrade tries to integrate seamlessly in-game and out. So, if you're sitting there at your PC doing something else and one of your buddies jumps into a game of Crysis, you'll get a notification on the corner of your screen. Is it on? OH, IT'S ON. Just click on the notification and you'll join the same server as your buddy. You can also skim your buddy list to see what games are going on and join any game in progress this way.



Browsing through giant server lists is for the dinosaurs. Comrade has a feature called 'SmartMatch,' which lets you set up your own criteria for the ideal server and it gives you a short list of the best eligible servers for your connection. Let's say you want to find a server playing the 'Power Struggle' game mode, with at least 12 players, and at least one empty spot. Boom! Smartmatch will do all the work for you, and remember your preferences for later. You'll see just the juiciest of servers. Easy.



Crysis has a built-in buddy list -- Click on 'Multiplayer' and make sure you're logged in. Use the same username and password you use to sign in with Comrade. Then click on the 'Chat' tab... your Comrade buddies will all be listed in the chat room! All the work has already been done for you. You can send them a message whether or not they're in the game already. (Might I suggest sending: "Hey! Get your ass in here!" Straight and to the point.)

Likewise, while you're in the game, your buddies can send you a Comrade message from outside the game. The message will appear within the Crysis game interface -- not popping up as some weird overlay, but actually integrated into the game. Chat away!

Enjoy the beta and don't forget that all beta participants are under NDA (non-disclosure agreement), so be careful when you're bragging to your friends.



      -Fargo