Nobunaga's Ambition Online Open Beta?!

The open beta testing for Nobunaga's Ambition Online will start on 9.00pm on 13 July (Taiwan's time). Not that I had participated in many beta testings, but this open beta is a bit strange.

Usually the purpose of an open beta is to test the software and/or a free trial for those who are interested in the game but are still undecided on whether to become paying customers. However what's strange for Nobunaga's Ambition Online is you have to purchase a serial number to activate your beta testing account.

Now I don't know about you, but this is the first time I've heard that a player has to pay to participate in a beta testing. Some more, currently the serial number could only be purchased in different physical packages in Taiwan, and most probably Hong Kong.

This announcement planted a bomb among the closed beta testers and those who are interested in the game. There are supporters and debates on both sides of the camp. If you ask me, this is very illogical. If you have to purchase a serial key to activate your full service account, I have nothing to say. But for beta testing, this action will definitely scare away a lot of potential players.

For those who like the game, they will purchase no matter how they complain, if they live in Taiwan (or Hong Kong). For overseas players, they are shut outside the door, no matter how willing they are to pay.

I'm not sure wether Koei has any knowledge or any say in this matter, but now I definitely fear for GVO. It will be very frustrating if your hard earned money cannot buy what you wanted.