Call of Duty: Modern Warfare has kickstarted its Xbox One beta, granting early hands-on with one of the year's most anticipated shooters. Delivering a fresh spin on the series' military operations, developer Infinity Ward pitches a grounded experience, better reflecting the gravity of modern-day combat. With the Modern Warfare beta now dropping ahead of launch, here's what you need to know.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta modes and maps
The latest rendition of Call of Duty is slated for Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC this October. Alongside signature multiplayer offerings, the final package promises a richer single-player campaign and revived Spec Ops cooperative missions. The beta is your first at-home opportunity for Xbox One, serving a sample of competitive modes over four days.
Gunfight is touted as one of Modern Warfare's core additions, hosting two-versus-two, no-respawn combat across various close-quarters arenas. The enclosed setting fosters fast-paced encounters, divided into rapid elimination-based rounds. Ground War flips the spectrum via 64-player battles, encouraging large-scale infantry and vehicular gameplay, with clear Battlefield influences. Both hit the September beta, accompanied by traditional six-versus-six modes.
With simultaneous testing spanning Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC, the beta also serves as the first public trial of cross-platform multiplayer. Modern Warfare follows in Fortnite's footsteps, bridging all three platforms with deep-rooted cross-play. The beta supports full-fledged support, including contextual input-based matchmaking.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta dates
Following a PlayStation-exclusive test period in early September, the next Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta welcomes all platforms. Commencing on Thursday, September 19, those with preorders gain one-day early access, ahead of the formal open beta. On Friday, September 20, the test switches to an open test accessible to all.
The Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta is set to run four days, concluding on September 23.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta start and end time
The earliest beta hands-on opportunity started on Thursday, September 19, at 1 PM ET (10 AM PDT / 6 PM UK) for those with Modern Warfare preorders. However, with an expansion set for 32 hours later, the beta will conclude four days later on September 23. Here's a breakdown of essential beta times.
- Beta starts for preorders: September 19, 2019 at 1 PM ET (10 AM PDT / 6 PM UK)
- Beta starts for all: September 20, 2019 at 9 PM ET (6 PM PDT / 2 APM UK)
- Beta ends for all: September 23, 2019 at 1 PM ET (10 AM PDT / 6 PM UK)
As formal guidance from Activision, specific times may be subject to change. If timings are adjusted, we'll update this guide.
How to play Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta
With the first wave of Modern Warfare beta access tied to preorders, players will need to ensure they're prepared to play. For purchases made via Amazon, GameStop, among other third-party retailers, a one-time 25-character code is required for redemption via the Xbox One's integrated Microsoft Store. If you haven't received your beta code, we recommend contacting your retailer for additional information.
To play the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare beta right now, preorders start at $60.
Times have changed
Infinity Ward brings a raw and provocative take on the first-person shooter, shining a gritty light on the changing nature of modern combat.
For Modern Warfare digital preorders via the Microsoft Store, no redeemable code is provided. Your early-access license is linked to your Microsoft Account, granting seamless access. To download the beta client, search "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare" via the Xbox storefront.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare digital Xbox One preorders also remain available, starting at $60.
Get the download today
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare raises the stakes once again in 2019. Jumping in digitally grants early access, without the hassle of redeeming codes.
For those holding until September 20, accessing the beta is equally streamlined. With no purchase required, search "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare" via the Xbox One Microsoft Store to initial the download, clocking in just short of 40GB. However, like any multiplayer title, an Xbox Live Gold membership is required to access online content.
