Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 held an early access beta test over the penultimate weekend of August, giving players a first proper look at this year's instalment ahead of a crowded autumn release schedule. The franchise faces unusual pressure this year after the previous title, Black Ops 7, underperformed and prompted a rare semi-apology from publisher Activision, while newcomer indie shooter Wardogs and the looming release of Grand Theft Auto 6 in mid-November threaten to draw players and spending elsewhere. Despite these challenges, the beta suggests Modern Warfare 4 delivers the boots-on-the-ground military shooting the series is known for, with solid gunplay and enough variety to reward experimentation.

The beta featured a refreshed arsenal, including the Han 86 assault rifle, Nightshade SMG and KG-7 Vulcan sniper rifle, alongside new field upgrades such as a smoke wall and razor-wire trap, and kill streaks including the Artillery Beacon and Wheelson mini tank. Five maps were available, ranging from the South Korean cityscape of Silkworm to the reviewer's favourite, Rooftops, set across two New York high-rises. New modes included Kill Block, a fast-paced 10v10 mode with no respawns set in a reconfigurable training camp, alongside returning favourites like Team Deathmatch and Domination. Reviewers noted the pace was relentless, with one content creator likening the experience to "the TikTok of gaming" due to its rapid, constant action and abundance of on-screen distractions.