Quake III Arena: Dec. 5

That's right. You'll only need to wait four more days to play the complete version of id Software's latest in Quake-frag action, Quake III Arena. In a joint announcement released today, Activision, the game's publisher, and id said that the game is expected to be on store shelves on Dec. 5, 1999, for about US$49.99.

Quake III Arena will feature 32 distinct bots that simulate real-world multiplayer action and will also help to hone gamers' skills for Internet battles.

''Quake III Arena goes beyond being a computer game and is a cultural phenomenon unto itself,'' said Todd Hollenshead, CEO of id Software. ''With QUAKE III Arena, players can expect to experience all of the frenetic excitement, visceral gameplay, and mind-blowing visuals that have become the hallmark of id titles.''

For UK gamers, Quake III Arena will be available on Dec. 17 for about £44.99.