Crysis 2 PC demo drops March 1

Crysis 2 doesn't debut until March 22, and so far, only Xbox Live subscribers have been able to play the game's multiplayer demo. That will all change on March 1, when PC gamers will get a chance to nanosuit up to try out the graphically intense shooter.

This morning, publisher Electronic Arts announced the demo, which will allow players to engage in six-versus-six battles on two maps and two modes. The maps include Skyline, which takes place atop and inside several New York City skyscrapers, and Pier 17, an open area on the Manhattan waterfront. Modes include Team Instant Action, a form of team deathmatch, and Crash Site, a variant on traditional capture the flag.

All of Crysis 2's multiplayer content was developed by Crytek UK, the studio formerly known as Free Radical. Following the lackluster reception of its long-delayed shooter Haze, the once-independent studio found itself in dire financial straights, allowing Germany-based Crytek to swoop in for the acquisition in February 2009.

Unlike previous games from the formerly PC-focused Crytek, Crysis 2 will be released simultaneously for the PC, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. For more information on the shooter, check out GameSpot's recent preview.