Modern Warfare 3 Beta: Start Dates, How To Play, Everything You Need To Know

We're approaching the launch of Call of Duty's next installment — Modern Warfare 3. The upcoming continuation to Modern Warfare 2 (2022) is set to release on November 10 across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC. And while this might still seem like a fair amount of time to wait, Activision has already begun rolling out information on what players can expect from this new release.

Perhaps one of the more relieving aspects of Modern Warfare 3 is how cosmetics, Blueprints etc. will carry forward from Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone into MW3. There are some exceptions, of course, though the majority of content players have personally unlocked in-game will be useable in the new release. But players are still waiting on their chance to get a first hands-on look at Modern Warfare 3. 

In past entries, open/closed betas and Early Access periods gave fans the chance to experience elements of the game ahead of launch, namely the Campaign. Certain pre-orders for Modern Warfare 2 included access to both the special betas and Early Access to the campaign, ahead of its release last year. So what about Modern Warfare 3? Can players expect a similar schedule this time around? Here's what we know so far.

Will Modern Warfare 3 Have A Beta?

Yes, Modern Warfare 3 will have a beta. In fact, MW3 is expected to have two beta weekends similar to that of MW2 as well as an Early Access period ahead of launch. According to Insider Gaming, one beta is exclusively for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 owners, and another will be available across every platform. After that, players can expect the Campaign Early Access to roll out for those who have pre-ordered editions of the game. 

MW3 Beta: Start, End Dates, Early Access

The MW3 open betas and Campaign Early Access are expected to fall around the following key dates:

Weekend One - PlayStation Exclusive

• Early Access: Oct. 6 - Oct. 7
• Open Beta: Oct. 8 - Oct. 10

Weekend Two - Crossplay Beta (Xbox, PC, PlayStation)

• Early Access: Oct. 12 - Oct. 13
• Open Beta: Oct. 14 - Oct. 16

Campaign Early Access (PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S/PC) – November 2, 2023

Full Release (PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S/PC) – November 10, 2023

It's important to note that the above dates for the Beta Weekends and Campaign Early Access are subject to change at anytime, though we will endeavor to keep this page updated with accurate information as it becomes available. 

MW3: How To Play Beta & Early Access 

In order to join the MW3 beta weekends, players will need to have pre-ordered or pre-purchased Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Battle.net or Steam. Players can pre-order digital versions of the game by their chosen platform's dediacted digital storefront.

Players won't need a code to access the beta weekends or the Early Access period. Those that have pre-purchased or pre-ordered will be automatically registered to the open betas and Early Access period. When Early Access begins, players will be able to download it immediately.

If you've pre-ordered your copy of the game through a physical retailer, then your access to the open betas and Early Access period should be printed as a code on your receipt, or sent to you via email.

Is The MW3 Beta Free?

While players won't need to make any additional purchases to join in the open beta, you will need to have pre-ordered or pre-purchased MW3 to take part in the early access open beta.