Gears of War: E-Day – Open Beta Start Dates and How To Get Early Access

Gears of War: E-Day‘s big showing at the Xbox Games Showcase was primarily focused on its campaign, but the game is also set to have what will undoubtedly be a killer multiplayer mode too, and players won’t have to wait too long to try it.

Xbox has confirmed that a multiplayer beta is coming, starting on August 6. While the “open beta” will eventually be available to everyone, those who preorder Gears of War: E-Day can get in early and play during the first beta weekend.

Here are all the details you need until then.

How to Get Into the Gears of War: E-Day Open Beta

As far as Beta Codes go, the Gears website also says that, “Players who digitally pre-order Gears of War: E-Day are automatically granted Early Access to the Open Beta and do not require a Beta Code.”

Players who pre-order a physical edition should expect to receive a Beta Code at the point of sale from participating retailers, granting entry into Open Beta for Early Access.”

That means Gears of War: E-Day’s beta is ultimately open to everyone, but, as we mentioned, players who preorder any edition of the game can jump in before the wider public (that includes the standard, premium, or collector’s edition).

Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass subscribers will also receive access during the August 6 weekend as part of their membership benefits.

As far as how it works for everyone else looking to access in the second beta weekend, we’ll have to await further information from Xbox.

When is the Gears of War: E-Day Open Beta?

Xbox has confirmed that Gears of War: E-Day’s multiplayer beta will be split across two weekends, starting on August 6.

Gears of War E-Day is an Xbox Console Exclusive

Standard Edition of Gears of War: E-Day is available in both a physical and digital format, and listed for $69.99. But, it’s only available for Xbox consoles and on PC. This one isn’t coming to PS5.

Alongside the main game and getting early access to the Open Beta, ordering now also sets you up with a preorder bonus of a character skin and weapon skin.

If you are going this route, I’d suggest a choosing retailer like Best Buy or Amazon, which won’t charge you until the game eventually ships in October later this year.

If you don’t click with the game during the beta, you can simply cancel your preorder without the stress of having to await a refund.

Robert Anderson is IGN’s Senior Commerce Editor and resident deals expert on games, collectibles, trading card games, and more. You can follow him @robertliam21 on Bluesky.