Crash Team Rumble beta: dates, how to play, and rewards

By Jesse Lennox Updated April 20, 2023

Crash Bandicoot was once thought long dead and buried, however, after a fantastic remake of his original trilogy, plus a new fourth entry that brought the classic platformer into the modern day, everyone was curious as to where the orange shorts-wearing marsupial would go next. What no one could’ve predicted is Crash Team Rumble, a competitive multiplayer game where two teams of four attempt to capture the most Wumpa fruit. While the game’s official release date is set for June 20, those interested will be able to get in on the action early during the closed beta. As this isn’t an open beta, we’ll let you know how to get in, when the beta will run, and what rewards (if any) you can earn.

How to access the Crash Team Rumble closed beta

Activision

The only way to secure your spot in the Crash Team Rumble closed beta is to preorder the full game. This can either be the Standard Edition ($30) or the Deluxe Edition ($40).

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Once you’ve got your copy preordered, the closed beta test will run from April 20 through April 24. During this time you will be able to play as five characters: Crash, Coco, Tawna, Neo Cortex, and Dingodile, each of which fit into the roles of Scorers, Blockers, and Boosters. Each character will have their own skills and abilities to master. Of course, there will be more classic Crash Bandicoot characters available in the full version of the game.

The beta will feature three maps called Just Beachy, Calamity Canyon, and Tiki Towers.

The beta gives an early look at the game and learn how some of the characters and maps play, but unfortunately, you won’t be able to carry anything earned during the beta into the full release. The only way to earn any rewards early would be to preorder the Deluxe Edition that comes with the following bonuses when the game fully launches in June:

Premium Battle Pass for seasons 1 and 2
25-tier instant unlock for season 1 Premium Battle Pass
Digital Proto Pack:
- 8 “Blocky” hero skins
- Pixelated shadow
- “Blocky” hat
- “Get on my level” victory music
- “Blocky” Score FX
- Unique banner
- “Blocky” backpack

Jesse Lennox has been a writer at Digital Trends for over four years and has no plans of stopping. He covers all things…

Gaming

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Someone playing Wordle on a smartphone.

We have the solution to Wordle on July 16, as well as some helpful hints to help you figure out the answer yourself, right here. We've placed the answer at the bottom of the page, so we don't ruin the surprise before you've had a chance to work through the clues. So let's dive in, starting with a reminder of yesterday's answer.
Yesterday's Wordle answer
Let's start by first reminding ourselves of yesterday's Wordle answer for those new to the game or who don't play it daily, which was "PEARL." So we can say that the Wordle answer today definitely isn't that. Now, with that in mind, perhaps take another stab at it using one of these Wordle starting words and circle back if you have no luck.
Hints for today's Wordle
Still can't figure it out? We have today's Wordle answer right here, below. But first, one more thing: Let's take a look at three hints that could help you find the solution, without giving it away, so there's no need to feel guilty about keeping your streak alive -- you put in some work, after all! Or just keep scrolling for the answer.

Today’s Wordle includes the letter J.
Today’s Wordle uses two vowels.
Today's Wordle is something you might find in a donut.

Gaming

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New York Times' Connection puzzle open in the NYT Games app on iOS.

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Some days are trickier than others — just like other NYT Games favorites The Mini and Strands. If you're having a little trouble solving today's puzzle, check out our Connections tips and tricks guide for some good strategies or check out the hints for today's Connections puzzle below. And if you still can't get it, we'll tell you today's answers at the very end.
How to play Connections

Gaming

NYT Strands today: hints, spangram and answers for Saturday, November 23

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Like Wordle, Connections, and the Mini Crossword, Strands can be a bit difficult to solve some days. There's no shame in needing a little help from time to time. If you're stuck and need to know the answers to today's Strands puzzle, check out the solved puzzle below.
How to play Strands
You start every Strands puzzle with the goal of finding the "theme words" hidden in the grid of letters. Manipulate letters by dragging or tapping to craft words; double-tap the final letter to confirm. If you find the correct word, the letters will be highlighted blue and will no longer be selectable.