Activision has officially revealed the open beta schedule for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, ahead of the game’s full release in October 2026. The multiplayer beta will run over two weekends, offering early access to players who preorder and a wider open beta for all platforms, including the Nintendo Switch 2, for the first time.
Players who preorder any edition of Modern Warfare 4 on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, or PC (via Steam, Battle.net, and Xbox on PC) will gain entry to the early access beta starting August 21, immediately following the Call of Duty: NEXT broadcast. This early access period runs until August 25 and allows preordering users to experience the multiplayer component ahead of the open beta.
Open Beta Available to All Platforms Including Nintendo Switch 2
The open beta will commence on August 28 and conclude on September 1. Unlike the early access window, this phase is free and available to all players on every supported platform. This marks the first time Call of Duty will offer a multiplayer beta on the Nintendo Switch 2, allowing Switch owners to participate alongside Xbox, PlayStation, and PC gamers without requiring a preorder.
Access to the beta will be via Call of Duty HQ, which is expected to distribute the beta similar to previous entries like Black Ops 6 and 7, where the beta was delivered through the official launcher as an update or standalone access point.
Multiplayer Beta Focus and Availability
The beta is designed to provide a preliminary look at Modern Warfare 4’s multiplayer mechanics, offering players the chance to test gunplay, movement, and core multiplayer modes before the full release. Historically, betas have offered a curated selection of maps and modes rather than the complete array planned for launch, and this beta is expected to follow that approach. Hardcore modes and some features are likely reserved for the full game release.
The beta period also serves as a testing ground for developers to gather community feedback on gameplay, as seen in past Call of Duty titles where such input led to adjustments ahead of launch. Players can expect to get familiar with changes implemented in Modern Warfare 4, including adjustments to weapon sights and movement pace, as well as new map designs such as the Kill Block mode.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 is developed by Infinity Ward and published by Activision. The full game is scheduled for release on October 23, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.
