Closed beta testing for Diablo III has commenced 

Blizzard has announced the closed beta test for Diablo III has begun. The company has started issuing the first wave of invites and plans to add more participants over the course of testing.

In the closed beta, testers will participate in Act I as any of the five hero classes, ultimately going up against the Skeleton King solo or in co-op. They will also get to meet up with artisans, and other characters from Sanctuary and try out the crafting system.

"This closed beta test is an important milestone for us as we enter the final stages of development on Diablo III," said Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard. "Our goal is to create the best action role-playing game experience to date, building on everything we've learned since the release of Diablo II and incorporating the powerful features of the new Battle.net platform.

"We hope players enjoy participating in the beta test and we look forward to hearing their feedback."

Release timing and region-specific details such as pricing and supported languages will be announced at a later date.

For your shot at participating in the beta, head on over to Battle.net.