The MW4 beta will run over two weekends, but Game Pass users no longer have any advantages.
Two beta weekends have been officially announced for CoD Modern Warfare 4. Here’s a quick and clear overview of the most important facts and figures.
- When is the MW4 beta?
- What’s playable in the MW4 beta?
- Is DMZ part of the MW4 beta?
- How do I get a key?
- Will I get a beta key through Game Pass?
- When is CoD Next?
- Can I play MW4 early?
When is the MW4 beta?
Beta Weekend 1 (Early Access):
- FromAugust 21–25, 2026(immediately following the CoD Next Show)
- Access: Only for pre-order customers of any MW4 version
- Platforms: PS5, PC, Xbox Series consoles
Beta Weekend 2 (Open Beta)
- FromAugust 28 to September 1, 2026
- Access: Free for all users, no key required
- Platforms: PS5, PC, Xbox Series consoles, Switch 2
What is playable in the MW4 beta?
The beta includes only the multiplayer mode of Modern Warfare 4. The following features have been confirmed:
- 19 weapons from the full version
- Kill Block (a new modular Gunfight map)
- Mobility training course
- Various modes (3v3 Gunfight, 6v6, Search & Destroy)
- Large-scale battles with battle tanks (Ground War)
Is DMZ part of the MW4 beta?
No, DMZ has not been confirmed. We currently assume that the Extraction mode will therefore not be playable in the Modern Warfare 4 beta. DMZ is scheduled to launch alongside the main game on October 23.
How do I get a key?
- Digital pre-order:Access to Beta Weekend 1 is granted automatically
- Physical pre-order:Retailer code must be redeemed on the official CoD website
- Beta Weekend 2:No key required; free download on all platforms
Will I get a beta key through Game Pass?
No. Call of Dutywill not be launching on Game Pass this year. As a result, subscribers will not receive any benefits in MW4—this also applies to beta access. A key for Weekend 1 is therefore available exclusively to those who pre-order.
When is CoD Next?
The Call of Duty Showcase traditionally features an in-depth look at the multiplayer mode and reveals new features.
CoD Next 2026 will take placeon August 21, 2026. The MW4 beta (Early Access phase) will start immediately following the broadcast.
Can I play MW4 early?
Yes, here are the details:
- Advanced Access: October 16(single-player campaign only, for pre-order customers only)
- Full Release: October 23(Single-player, Multiplayer, DMZ, no pre-order required)
MW4’s single-player campaign continues the story from MW2 and MW3 but introduces a new setting with a military escalation between South and North Korea. In multiplayer, developer Infinity Ward focuses on fast movement and quick TTK in the familiar CoD arena format. DMZ, on the other hand, takes it down a notch and delivers a more tactical extraction game mode in the style of Tarkov or Arc Raiders set in a large open world.
