Quake Champions is coming along nicely, especially after fixing a bit of weapons lag in a recent patch. With QuakeCon approaching on August 24, it seems only fitting that id Software will launch the game on Steam Early Access on August 22.

The Early Access build will include a bunch of new additions:

• New Maps: Church of Azathoth and Tempest Shrine
• New Champion: DOOM Slayer
• Rune Challenges: Players will be rewarded for completing new Rune Challenges found in backpacks
• Lore System: Players will find Lore Items hidden throughout Arenas in vases. By collecting all 10 Lore Items for a specific Champion, they will unlock that Champion’s high-end Lore Skin
• Improved New Player Onboarding: New features to help get fresh fraggers up to speed include a movement tutorial, shooting gallery, and the ability to choose a skill level
• New Customization Options: New options include new Champion skin sets and weapon shaders
• In-Game Voice Chat

"The Early Access version of Quake Champions is, obviously, a work-in-progress, but represents a solid and robust version of the game, with four modes, 11 Champions, a variety of maps, and a thriving community of fans," id Studio Director Tim Willits said in a press release. "Early Access will allow us to work closely with players to improve the game and add additional features before the official launch of Quake Champions in the coming months."

To make things sweeter for Quake fans, id and Bethesda are knocking $10 off the price of its Champions Pack to $29.99 to give players a chance to try all the Champions released so far. The pack will also give players access to all Champions released down the road as well. In addition, players will get a limited edition Ranger skin available only during the Early Access period, as well as three loot chests that will contain three in-game items such as skins, shaders, nameplates, etc.

The free-to-play portion of the game will launch at a later date, and players who have been part of the beta will be allowed to continue play in early access.

Id and Bethesda are still mum on when they expect the full game to finally release on PC, but this will tide fans over during the upcoming QuakeCon weekend. Unfortunately, console fans will still need to hold their breath and hope.