Activision has officially revealed the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 multiplayer beta schedule ahead of the game’s October 23, 2026 launch. Players who preorder the game on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S will receive Early Access beginning August 21, while the Open Beta starts on August 28 and expands to include Nintendo Switch 2 players.
Modern Warfare 4 Beta Schedule
The beta is split into two testing periods.
| Beta Phase | Dates | Platforms | Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Access Beta | August 21–25, 2026 | PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S | Preorder required |
| Open Beta | August 28–September 1, 2026 | PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2 | Open to all players |
The second beta weekend marks the franchise’s return to Nintendo hardware, with Nintendo Switch 2 joining the multiplayer test. Switch 2 preorders are scheduled to open on August 26.
Call of Duty: NEXT Kicks Off the Beta
The Early Access Beta begins immediately after the Call of Duty: NEXT showcase on August 21.
The livestream will feature:
- Extended multiplayer gameplay
- Developer insights
- A detailed overview of multiplayer features
- New announcements ahead of the beta
The event serves as the final preview before players gain hands-on access to Modern Warfare 4’s multiplayer.
Multiplayer Content Confirmed for the Beta
Activision has confirmed that the beta will include a variety of multiplayer experiences, although the complete list of maps, Operators, and weapons has not yet been revealed.
Confirmed content includes:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weapons | Up to 19 unlockable weapons |
| Operators | Selection of new playable Operators |
| Small-Team Combat | 3v3 matches |
| Large Battles | Multiplayer modes featuring tanks |
| Returning Mode | Search & Destroy |
| New Mode | Kill Block |
| Training | Training Mobility Course |
| Loadouts | New Gunny system |
Players will also be able to experiment with tacticals, lethals, field upgrades, perks, and killstreaks during the beta. Additional information about the Gunny loadout system is expected before testing begins.
Vault Edition Bonuses
Players who preorder the Vault Edition will receive additional multiplayer content during the beta.
Confirmed Vault Edition Operators include:
- Price
- Ghost
- Valeria
- Blix
Activision has not yet announced the complete list of Operators or all Vault Edition beta content.
How to Join the Beta
Access depends on the beta phase.
| Beta | How to Join |
|---|---|
| Early Access | Preorder any edition of Modern Warfare 4 on PC, PS5, or Xbox Series X|S |
| Open Beta | Free for all players during August 28–September 1 |
Depending on your platform, an online multiplayer subscription may be required to participate.
What to Expect
The Modern Warfare 4 beta will offer the first opportunity to experience the game’s multiplayer before launch. Early Access begins on August 21, followed by the Open Beta on August 28, which expands testing to all supported platforms, including Nintendo Switch 2. Activision is expected to reveal more details about maps, Operators, weapons, and the new Gunny system as the beta approaches.
