Need for Speed World green-flagged for July 20

While a closed beta for Electronic Arts' open-world online racer is nearing its third month, those already on the inside, and everyone else with eyes on it, now have a date to circle on their calendars: July 20. That's the day Need for Speed World, developed by EA Black Box, leaves beta on the PC and opens to the public.

On that Tuesday, those interested can log on to the game's Web site and access NFS World's free download client. The free version allows access to the game's open-world races, police pursuits, and character progression, though a cap for the latter is placed at level 10.

For those seeking a deeper experience, EA will also launch the online game alongside the Need for Speed World Starter Pack, which costs $20. Inside the digital wrapping are access to level 50, a Toyota Corolla AE86 vehicle exclusive to the pack, and $20 worth of SpeedBoost (NFS World's in-game currency). Starter Pack purchasers also receive a discount on power-ups, double experience point periods, and rental cars.

Further, EA revealed today that those who preorder the NFS World Starter Pack will have access to the full game on July 13, a week before those who begin playing on its official street date, as well as immediate access to the ongoing beta. Additionally, those who provide a down payment can enjoy increased experience-point generation during the seven-day exclusivity, as well as the right to reserve their desired racer name.

In addition to a day/night cycle, NFS World has 150 miles of in-game road to traverse, including NFS: Most Wanted's Rockport locale and NFS: Carbon's Palmont city streets.

For more on the game, check out GameSpot's latest preview.