I remember with the old system that there was a way to play private games. I'd like to introduce some of my friends to play the game together in a small match, so they can get accustomed to the game. Is there any way to play private games now or even create multiplayer games now with basic membership?

We have not added private games yet.

As a basic member, you could wait until a standard game fills and respawns and then fill the new game with all your friends.

A simpler solution is to upgrade your membership.

Thanks for the clarification. : )

Private games? Not yet? Soon? ETA?