What does an open beta or closed beta mean in online games?

Russell Mckinzie: Closed Beta MMorpg's are for testing the game for errors. Open Beta is for even more testing, but all can play.

Corrina Faro: The term Beta in online gaming is the second stage of testing.Closed Beta. This is a closed beta which you can't just register for like a normal online game, you have to apply for it, the creators of the game then choose from hundreds of applications which people to select to test it. They use the feedback to develop the game further. Open Beta. This is the beta but open to the whole public, you just have to register like a normal game. They again will use feedback from this to cancel out any bugs of glitches. Does that help?...Show more

Jodie Capella: beta is one of the last steps in ironing out video games. beta is the testing that takes place before the games release. open means anyone can join, while closed means its by invite only