The Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta gives Call of Duty players their first major opportunity to experience Infinity Ward’s newest title before the official release on October 23, 2026.
This year’s beta brings more content than previous tests, including multiplayer maps, new game modes, a playable campaign mission, and expanded platform support. Players can also unlock exclusive rewards that will transfer to the full game when Modern Warfare 4 launches.
Modern Warfare 4 Beta Schedule
The Modern Warfare 4 beta is split into two weekends. The first weekend is available for players who pre-order the game, while the second weekend opens access to everyone.
- Early Access Beta (Weekend One)
- Dates: August 21 – August 25, 2026
- Start Time: 11:00 AM PT on August 21
- End Time: 10:00 AM PT on August 25
- Requirement: Pre-order any edition of Modern Warfare 4
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam, Battle.net, Xbox PC)
Players with Early Access can start testing the game earlier and begin unlocking weapons, operators, and cosmetic rewards.
- Open Beta (Weekend Two)
- Dates: August 28 – September 1, 2026
- Start Time: 10:00 AM PT on August 28
- End Time: 10:00 AM PT on September 1
- Requirement: Free access for all players
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Nintendo Switch 2
All progress made during Weekend One will carry over into Weekend Two, allowing Early Access players to continue their progression.
How to Play the Modern Warfare 4 Beta
For players who pre-ordered Modern Warfare 4, Early Access is available automatically through supported digital platforms. Physical pre-orders from selected retailers may provide beta access through a code system.
The Open Beta does not require a pre-order. Players can simply download the beta client from their platform’s store when it becomes available.
Depending on the platform, an online multiplayer subscription may be required, including services such as PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core/Ultimate.
Players should also download the beta as early as possible. Pre-loading started on August 20, helping reduce waiting times when servers become available.
Beta Content and Features
Modern Warfare 4’s beta includes a wide range of playable content. One of the biggest highlights is the addition of a campaign mission called “Entrenched.”
This marks the first time a Call of Duty beta has allowed players to experience campaign content before launch.
Multiplayer Maps
The beta features several multiplayer maps designed for different combat styles:
- Rooftops
- Silkworm
- Transit 213
- Cachette
- Lotus / Lithium
- Kill Block
Players can expect a mix of close-range fights, objective battles, and traditional Call of Duty gunplay across these locations.
Available Multiplayer Modes
The beta includes multiple popular modes:
- Team Deathmatch
- Domination
- Hardpoint
- Kill Confirmed
- Inflation
- Search & Destroy
- Kill Block (10v10 and 3v3 Gunfight)
- Mobility Course
The new Mobility Course gives players a chance to practice the updated movement mechanics before entering competitive matches.
Open Beta Exclusive Content
The Open Beta weekend adds even more content for players to explore.
Large-scale battles return with Ground War: Combat Outpost, featuring maps such as Imjin Farmland and Wolves Stadium.
Players can also try the new multiplayer mode Hijack and experience the Zodiac Resurgence map for Warzone.
These additions make the second beta weekend the biggest testing phase before launch.
Weapons, Progression, and Rewards
During the beta, players can unlock operators and weapons while leveling up their account.
The progression limits are:
- Weekend One: Level 20 cap
- Weekend Two: Level 30 cap
Up to 19 weapons are available during the beta, allowing players to test different loadouts and attachments.
Beta rewards include exclusive items that will carry over to the full game, such as:
Dread Tiger Operator Skin for Reece
Beta Forged Weapon Blueprint for the Han 86 assault rifle
Calling cards
Emblems
Additional cosmetics
Players who reach Level 30 can unlock the special Han 86 blueprint before launch.
Cross-Play and Platform Support
Modern Warfare 4 supports cross-play between PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Nintendo Switch 2 support will arrive during the Open Beta weekend, making this the first mainline Call of Duty beta available on a Nintendo platform.
Players across supported systems will be able to compete together through cross-platform matchmaking.
Modern Warfare 4 Beta Tips
To make the most of your beta experience, players should focus on learning the new mechanics, testing different weapons, and improving their overall performance before the full launch.
Some players may also look for ways to practice specific weapons, movement techniques, and map layouts before jumping into competitive matches. Searching for CoD MW4 Bot Lobbies has become a popular option among players who want additional practice opportunities and a chance to become familiar with the game’s systems.
Other tips for the beta include:
- Download the beta early to avoid launch-day delays.
- Try different weapons instead of focusing on only one setup.
- Use the Mobility Course to learn the updated movement system.
- Level up quickly during Weekend One to unlock more content.
- Experiment with different loadouts before the full game releases.
- Expect possible server congestion during the first hours.
The Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta offers one of the most complete previews Call of Duty has provided before launch. With multiplayer, campaign content, Ground War, and Warzone Resurgence all included, players have plenty of ways to experience the game early.
Whether you are joining through Early Access or waiting for the free Open Beta weekend, this is the best chance to test new features, explore maps, and prepare for the full release on October 23, 2026.
