The open beta for Relic Entertainment's Company of Heroes 2 is officially open for business. It will launch a little later today and run until June 18th giving fans a two week competitive and co-op multiplayer taster.

Six of the RTS sequel's maps will be made available, with the first 45 levels of the game's progression and bulletin system. All unlocks earned will carry over if COH2 is purchased within 60 days.

Former EVP of core games at THQ, Danny Bilson, recounts his time at the now extinct publisher, saying it was "brilliant at what it did" from 1991 to 2007 making a fortune for themselves and investors.

There were "legacy issues" which plagued the company, slowing them down. They went from casual and licensed titles to AAA but were "shutting studios the whole time," says Bilson.

Brian Farrell and Jason Rubin have discussed a little about the closing moments of publisher THQ, of which both were leading executives. Farrell does "sincerely regret this outcome" for those out of work.

Rubin adds that he was brought in to "help turn this ship around," and while disappointed never everyone was saved, he echoes Farrell in being grateful for those that were snapped up.