EA and Crytek have announced that a playable multiplayer demo for the upcoming sci-fi shooter Crysis 2 will release exclusively on Xbox LIVE on January 26th. However, only Xbox LIVE Gold subscribers are eligible to participate.

"Crysis 2 offers a fresh, new take on multiplayer - one that will stand out and establish the game as a top contender in the first-person shooter genre," said Cevat Yerli, CEO of Crytek. "The Nanosuit gives gamers a sense of power they have yet to experience in any other shooter, and having New York City as a backdrop will present a different type of playground with even more possibilities."

According to a press release from EA, the demo will feature the game's "Skyline" map and two game modes: "Team Instant Action" and "Crash Site". From the press release:

"Team Instant Action pits two teams against each other as they kill as many opponents as possible to earn higher ranks. In Crash Site, players will battle for control of alien drop pods, earning points by guarding their pods and keeping enemies at bay. Developed by Crytek UK, Crytek’s specialist multiplayer studio, Crysis 2 multiplayer will include six gameplay modes and 12 maps set across recognisable locations in New York City. Throughout the campaign, players can earn up to 50 multiplayer ranks and a variety of different upgrades to their weapons and their Nanosuit."

Crysis 2 is scheduled for release on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC on March 25th in New Zealand.

UPDATE: Multiplayer trailer added.