Deep Silver/Stunlock Studios has just released a new Dead Island: Epidemic trailer to mark the start of the open Beta where players can sample the game’s co-op player versus AI mode. The Beta is available free to PC users via Steam and offers a mix of top down zombie filled action befitting of the Dead Island series. Interested parties can find more details about the game over at the official website.

Dead Island: Epidemic content update includes:

All-New PvE-Mode: Crossroads
Crossroads enriches the PvE experience in DI:E. It offers a bigger variation, higher replayability and more challenge, regardless of skill level. Both beginners and veterans get access to a mode where they can have a lot of fun while at the same time unifying the game experience across both PVE and PvP.

Progression System Overhaul
Levels for individual characters have been removed: There is now a global character level that applies to each character and unlocks apply to each character once you reach a new level.

Crafting Overhaul
Weapon leveling and workbench levels have been removed and a new loot based weapon modification has been introduced: As they complete matches players can now earn weapon modifications (which are divided into rarity: common, uncommon, rare, epic and legendary) which offer progressively more powerful and unique gameplay altering perks.

Passive Skills
Character weapon expertise has been removed and instead every character now has a unique passive ability.

Loot System Rework
Smarter drop system has been added which ensures more guaranteed drops and less randomness.