Battlefield 3 Premium includes all expansions, extra goodies

If you haven't yet heard the long running rumors or even if you have, it's all confirmed and announced now: Battlefield 3 Premium is official and live. The short version: pay $50, get all DLC and some extra goodies.

The long version: it's $50 on all platforms, and includes the Back to Karkand, Close Quarters, Armored Kill, End Game, and Aftermath DLC packs, saving you $25, or $10 if you already own Back to Karkand. Across all packs, you'll see 20 new maps, 20 new weapons and four new modes, all of which you'll get two weeks early access to. As for extra goodies, Premium packs in a load of stuff. Check the list:

• soldier and weapon camos
• extra dog tags
• new knife
• extra assignments
• stat reset option
• queue priority
• additional Platoon emblem decals
• Double XP weekend access and other unique events
• strategy guides and videos direct from DICE
• ability to save your favourite Battle Reports

Close Quarters is available now to Premium players on PS3 and June 12 to Premium players on 360 and PC. If you decide not to pay for it, you'll have to wait until June 19 on PS3 and June 26 360 and PC. Armored Kill will launch in September, Aftermath in December, and End Game next March.

Aftermath sounds like, in part, a continuation of the single player story, whereas End Game debuts motorcycles. You read correctly.