EA has launched a closed beta for its upcoming Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) racer Need for Speed World.

Over the course of the next few months thousands of players from around the world will have the chance to experience this ambitious PC racer and offer crucial feedback to the developers.

“Need for Speed World is the world’s first MMO racer – a completely new entertainment experience for speed junkies all over the world,” said John Doyle, Need for Speed World Senior Producer. “We have expanded Need for Speed’s classic adrenaline fueled racing with an all-new power up system and deep RPG style progression to create a truly massive, socially-connected white-knuckle Need for Speed experience.”

Those interested in securing one of the limited slots for Need for Speed World beta access should visit www.world.needforspeed.com for details. The full game is scheduled to release in the US winter (or between December and March in New Zealand).