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Modern Warfare 4 open beta kicks off in August, including the long-anticipated Nintendo return
Activision has announced a beta test for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 ahead of the game's launch on 23 October, giving players their first proper chance to try the multiplayer offering. The trial matters most for Nintendo owners, as it marks Call of Duty's return to a Nintendo platform for the first time in years, this time on the Switch 2, alongside the usual PC, Xbox and PlayStation availability.
The beta runs in two stages: an Early Access period from 21 to 25 August for those who digitally pre-order, followed by an Open Beta from 28 August to 1 September that is free to all players, including Switch 2 owners. Activision says testers will get access to multiple multiplayer maps and modes, a range of new operators (including Vault Edition operators for pre-order customers), and up to 19 weapons, spanning small-scale 3v3 matches to large tactical battles with tanks. Modes on offer include Search & Destroy and the new Kill Block, plus a Training Mobility Course, with the full game featuring 12 new maps alongside a campaign and the DMZ extraction mode.
In short
- MW4 beta runs 21 August to 1 September before October launch
- First Call of Duty beta on a Nintendo platform in years (Switch 2)
- Early Access needs pre-order; Open Beta is free for all
Explained simply
Call of Duty is one of gaming's most popular action franchises, featuring fast-paced multiplayer combat games. The latest entry, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, is set to launch on 23 October and marks the series' return to a Nintendo platform for the first time in years.
A beta is an early version of a game released before the official launch to test features and gather feedback. This beta is significant because it brings the franchise back to Nintendo's Switch 2 console, alongside PC, PlayStation and Xbox.
The test will run across two periods: early access for those who pre-order from 21 to 25 August, followed by a free open beta from 28 August to 1 September for all players, including Switch 2 owners. Players will be able to try multiplayer matches on different maps with various weapons and game modes.
Call of Duty Entertainment Gaming