Total War: Arena artwork showing multiple factions

Total War: Arena is a multiplayer, free-to-play spin-off of the classic Total War series where players control only a couple of elite units each, and then through teamwork and strategy attempt to overpower the opposing team. An interesting concept to be sure, but for me it just never really scratched that Total War itch like some of the mainline games did.

Unfortunately for Total War: Arena, it would appear that this sentiment was quite common given that the developers have now announced that the Open Beta simply didn't meet their expectations, and as such they will be closing down its doors for good. Total War: Arena will be available until February 22nd, however, so if you ever wanted to give it a try or just play it to until you can see its loading screens in your sleep, you still have plenty of time.

"I would like to take a moment to thank the ARENA Team, who have poured their heart and soul into this game’s development and are just as disappointed by this as you," reads the brief developer update. "For those of you wondering about the team, they will all continue working on Total War, sharing their experience and learnings from ARENA. ARENA’s technological advancements will continue to be part of Total War development going forward."

As a small bonus for loyal players, Creative Assembly is offering a free piece of Total War content to any and all Total War: Arena players. Simply log in to the Wargaming Game Center and you'll be able to choose from one of these four:

Total War: MEDIEVAL II - Definitive Edition

Hannibal at the Gates (Total War: Rome II DLC)

Age of Charlemagne (Total War: Attila DLC)

Grim and the Grave (Total War: Warhammer DLC)

You can read more about Total War: Arena's shutdown, as well as what else the developers are offering to current players, over at the official website.