The King of Fighters 13 closed beta coming to Steam

The Windows PC version of 2D fighting game The King of Fighters 13 will come to Steam on Sept. 13, according to the game's listing on Valve's digital distribution service. The official release will be preceded by a closed beta test that begins Aug. 20.

SNK Playmore is accepting applicants for The King of Fighters 2013's beta until Aug. 18 and will limit entrance to the beta to 300 participants. Registration, as well as information on the game's system requirements, is available online in a short application.

The Steam release of KOF 13 will feature "vastly improved netcode" for online multiplayer matches, according to SNK Playmore. "The new netcode features improved communication speeds between you and your opponent, and also tailors your online experience according to your PC environment," the game's Steam description reads.

Modes available in the console versions of the game, including tutorial and story modes, will be included in the Steam release. Additionally, downloadable fighters Iori with the Power of Flames, NESTS Style Kyo and Mr. Karate will be playable from the start, bringing the initial roster to 36 characters.

The King of Fighters 13 Steam Edition is available for pre-order for $24.99, a $5 discount off the game's standard release price.