Modern Warfare 2 beta release dates, code access explained

The Modern Warfare 2 Open Beta is on the way, giving players a taste of this year’s Call of Duty shooter and maps.

While there hasn’t been a full reveal for Modern Warfare 2 yet, Activision has confirmed an open beta in September, with details on how to get a code via pre-order, or as a potential drop for watch some streams leading up to launch.

To help you prepare for the launch of the open beta, you will find a release dateand information on obtaining Early Access to the Modern Warfare 2 Beta on PlayStation, Xbox and PC.

On this page:

When is the Modern Warfare 2 beta? Modern Warfare 2 Open Beta Release Dates

During the Call Of Duty League event airing on August 7, Activision released the Modern Warfare 2 Open Beta schedules. other platforms the following week. Here are the timetables:

Weekend 1 (PlayStation Exclusive)

• Early Access – From Friday 16 to Saturday 17 September
• Open Beta – From Sunday 18 to Tuesday 20 September

Weekend 2 (cross play, all platforms)

• Early Access (Xbox + PC), Open Beta (PlayStation) – From Thursday 22 to Friday 23 September
• Open Beta (all platforms) – From Saturday 24 to Monday 26 September

Early access players can jump in a few days earlier if they pre-ordered the game or have access to a code through other means. A few days later each weekend, the open beta will then be available – first for PlayStation players, then on the second weekend, all platforms.

How to Get Early Access to the Modern Warfare 2 Beta

There are two main ways to access the Modern Warfare 2 Open Beta at the start of each respective weekend:

If you pre-order, once the beta is live, you will receive instructions on how to play via email. If you pre-ordered through PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store or Battle.net, you are automatically qualified to participate in the Modern Warfare 2 Open Beta Early Access.

As for the Call of Duty League Championship Weekend stream on Sunday, August 7, by watching and linking your Activision account to YouTube, you’ll have a chance to win a code for the Modern Warfare 2 open beta.

Activision may introduce additional ways to access the beta, such as at future streaming events or through social media.

What will be included in the Modern Warfare 2 beta?

At this time, Activision and Infinity Ward have yet to reveal much about what to expect from the Modern Warfare 2 Open Beta. The official site outlines the following:

“This preview build of the game will give you an advanced look at the game’s multiplayer, including maps, modes, weapons, and other features.”

We’ll have full information on Thursday, September 15th as part of a reveal event – including a first look at “the future of Warzone”:

In the past, Call Of Duty open betas included a handful of maps, a mode or two, and a selection of weapon loadouts for you to try.

What they have confirmed is one map – Grand Prix – that will be playable. Here is an overview:

A leak from an event held for NFL team the LA Rams gave us a look at the multiplayer lobby and a little snippet of gameplay. Nothing more, but this is proof that the beta, or at least a slice of multiplayer, is pretty much ready:

For now, that’s all we know so far about the upcoming Modern Warfare 2 beta. For a chance to get a code this weekend, be sure to tune into the league stream Call of Duty. It’s likely that more details regarding the beta will be unveiled soon – so stay tuned for updates.