To celebrate Killzone 3’s first anniversary, Guerrilla Games are releasing a standalone version of the game’s online component on the PlayStation Store next week. Dubbed Killzone 3 Multiplayer, it will include the Guerrilla Warfare, Warzone and Operations game modes, as well as the original Killzone 3 maps AND all Killzone 3 DLC maps.

Best of all, Killzone 3 Multiplayer is free to try – you can play any of the maps and modes until you reach the rank of Sergeant I. If you want to keep playing, attain higher ranks, and earn any of Killzone 3 Multiplayer’s four exclusive new trophies, you can unlock the full version for only $15 (UK/EU price TBA). Doing so will net you a 24-hour double XP bonus, 3 free unlock points, the ability to set up clans and custom games, and access to the Botzone mode to help hone your combat skills.

For those who already own Killzone 3 (or decide to purchase the full version of Killzone 3 Multiplayer), Guerrilla has another anniversary treat: next weekend will be a Double XP Weekend! Starting on Friday, March 2 at 17:00 PM UK time, and lasting until Monday, March 5 at 10:00 AM UK time, all XP earned in online Killzone 3 matches will be doubled. The trial version of Killzone 3 Multiplayer will be excluded from the Double XP Weekend, of course – we wouldn’t want you to hit that Sergeant I rank too quickly...