Pokémon Go 'field tests' are expanding, and you can sign up now

Pokéfans in the US can now sign up to play the game early

Pokémon fans can now register to test the upcoming Pokémon Go mobile game before it officially launches.

Beta tests have already started in Japan, but Niantic, the game's developer, has now announced the preview will be expanded to the US.

As announced in a post on Niantic's Blog, users can visit the Pokémon Go website to sign up - however, just putting your name down doesn't guarantee you entry to the "field test."

Japanese testers had to hand over their details and gaming history, and were later chosen in a lottery system. It looks like the US test will be similarly selective, with applicants having to provide their email address, their phone operating system, and the level they have reached on Ingress, another Niantic mobile game.

According to the developer, "the Pokémon Go field test will give users the opportunity to share early feedback and help improve the Pokémon Go experience."

It added: "Your regular gameplay and feedback will help us iterate, polish and make the game launch-ready."

Importantly, successful testers will also be asked to keep details about the game secret until it launches.

Pokémon Go is set for general release this summer, and will allow players to battle, capture and train Pokémon while exploring the real world.

Players will be able to carry the Pokémon Go Plus, a small wearable device which will buzz when a Pokémon is nearby. They'll then whip out their phone and see the Pokémon right in front of them, putting them in the shoes of a Pokémon trainer.

Pokéfans in the UK will have to wait, unfortunately. It's not clear when (or if) testing will be expanded to Europe, so stay tuned for more information.