Wizards of the Coast, Inc. announced today that the planned beta release of D&D Insider kicks off with the switch to 4th Edition content for the Dragon and Dungeon online magazines, set to coincide with the launch of D&D 4th Edition. The planned beta period is free, and in addition to the online magazines the beta will include the first iteration of the D&D Rules Compendium, an online resource for players and Dungeon Masters of the world’s greatest fantasy roleplaying game. Other D&D Insider components will roll out as they become available.

"We’re extremely excited to have both analog and digital components come together for D&D 4th Edition," said Scott Rouse, Senior Brand Manager for D&D. "Through the free beta period, we encourage fans to help us make improvements to the suite of digital components offered through D&D Insider."

The client-based applications, including the D&D Character Builder and D&D Game Table, will not be part of the initial beta release period, but will be added as they become available.

After the initial beta period concludes, Wizards of the Coast will offer a special introductory price for a limited time. "When the special introductory price period comes to an end, the regular price of $14.95 per month for the entire suite of components goes into effect," said Rouse. "And, as we’ve previously announced, there will be discounts based on longer subscription commitments."

Check out the latest installment of Ampersand for more details.