Even though the EQ2 beta isn't sheduled until, like may or something. Sony is offering a spot on the beta if:

1) You MUST have an everquest acct.

k.. that being said you have to spend some real cash for what is probably the worst Everquest themed game of all time. (PDA games not withstanding)

HERE'S HOW TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SPECIAL OFFER:
· Buy Lords of EverQuest, the next generation of real time strategy games
AND
· Register Lords of EverQuest™ with an existing EverQuest account on SOEGames.net
before 11:59 p.m. PST on January 3rd, 2004
AND
· Keep your EverQuest account in good standing throughout a special phase of EverQuest II beta

HERE'S WHAT YOU GET:
· An extra 30 days tacked onto the end of your current EverQuest subscription cycle
AND
· An invitation to participate in a special phase of EverQuest II beta
(tentatively scheduled for spring, 2004)
http://lordsofeverquest.station.sony...radaysofeq.jsp

Personally this - "special phase of EQ II beta" sounds a lot like "we will let you play 2 weeks before it's over"