'Metal Gear Solid Online' is announced

As the world awaits the launch of the much hyped Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, out March 30 next year, publisher Konami revealed it is developing an online version of the series.

Metal Gear Solid Online for the PS3 will see up to 16 players enjoying plenty of stealth action in an array of environments.

Konami has stated it plans to run a beta test of the game between August 20 to September 3, allowing up to 3,000 players to experience the title.

However, there is no confirmation as to whether the beta test will be available to UK gamers as rumours suggest it will only be available in Japan.

Although Metal Gear Solid Online is currently a PS3 exclusive, critics believe there is a possibility Konami will strike an Xbox 360 deal.

No official release date for the game has yet been announced.