As the release date for Modern Warfare 3 approaches, players can get an early start on the latest CoD journey by participating in the Beta access period. Not only does this allow fans to take a sneak peek into MW3’s mechanics, but it also gives the devs time to refine gameplay aspects and make adjustments based on player feedback. Here’s when you can expect the Beta to be live, how to access it, and what content will be included.
How to Access MW3 Beta
Players can access the Modern Warfare 3 Beta by pre-ordering the game on PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, or PC. Those who don’t pre-order MW3 can also access it during the Open Beta period (Weekend 1 for PlayStation users and Weekend 2 for all platforms.)
If you have pre-ordered the game from a retailer, you will receive a code on your receipt or email of the purchase, which you must redeem on the official Call of Duty site. However, those who pre-ordered MW3 through the PlayStation, Microsoft, Battle.net, or Steam stores will automatically be given access to the Beta without needing the code.
Xbox users do not need a Live Core Subscription during the Weekend 2 Open Beta, but they will need access to online features once MW3 officially releases. Those pre-ordering the Vault edition will earn various rewards, such as the Nemesis Operator Pack, two Weapon Vaults, and Blackcell ‘+30 Additional Tier Skips.’
Call of Duty MW3 Beta Times
According to the Call of Duty official Twitter, the Xbox and PC Early Access period will start on Oct. 12 – Oct. 13, starting at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET. This event also includes the PlayStation Open Beta for those who have this console. Then, the Open Beta for all platforms will begin on Oct. 14 at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET to Oct. 16 with an end time of 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET.
You can only participate in the Early Access period with a preorder purchase, but there will be other chances for a free version.
How to Get Free MW3 Beta Codes
The Call of Duty official Twitter account has been offering free Beta codes during promotional events. Previously, you could text a certain number to get one, which may occur again as the release date approaches.
The CoD account also indicated that they will release 30,000 Beta codes if a specific post hits 10,000 retweets. However, the code drop has since been exhausted, and it appears that it did not reach the goal.
There will likely be opportunities for free beta drops, but for the time being, there are no active promotional events.
Do I Have to Preorder MW3 to Play the Beta?
You don’t have to preorder Modern Warfare 3 to play the Beta, as you will have access during the Open Beta periods. The Call of Duty Blog has confirmed this, indicating that PlayStation users are free to play it during the latter half of Weekend One.
Those who don’t have a PlayStation can access the Open Beta during Weekend Two, allowing all consoles to tune in for the event. Of course, if you want to play it early, you’ll need to preorder the game, but it isn’t required during those specific periods.
Modern Warfare 3 Beta Expected Content
The second Open Beta Weekend will feature seven maps: Favela, Estate, Rust, Skidrow, Highrise, Popov Power, and Orlov Military Base (Groundwar.) Each location will be reimagined for the modern age as a callback to CoD’s classic destinations.
You can anticipate new experiences, specifically with Ground War, as well as various modes and loadout selections. However, Carry Forward content cannot be accessed in the Beta, and any experience you gain during this period will not cross over to the official version.
Based on the content of Weekend One, you’ll be able to play standard games like Team Deathmatch, Kill Confirmed, and Hardpoint. Nevertheless, there may be a few new additions that haven’t been confirmed as of yet.
That’s everything to know about the MW3 Beta right now. We’ll update this page as Activision reveals more details in the run-up to the Beta, so stay tuned and check back.
