Overview
- Activision announced a two‑phase multiplayer beta with Early Access from Aug. 21–25 for pre‑orders on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S and an Open Beta from Aug. 28–Sept. 1 that adds Nintendo Switch 2 and is open to all players.
- The beta will showcase new and returning multiplayer content including 12 maps, new Operators, up to 19 unlockable weapons, the new Kill Block mode and a Training Mobility Course.
- Pre‑order incentives matter for access and content because Early Access requires a digital pre‑order and Vault Edition buyers get the Vault Edition Operators during beta testing.
- Call of Duty: Next on Aug. 21 will offer live gameplay and a deeper multiplayer briefing, and reporting currently conflicts on when Switch 2 reservations start (Aug. 26 versus Aug. 28) pending Activision clarification.
- The beta is both a technical test and a marketing push ahead of the game’s Oct. 23, 2026 launch, giving more players a preview on Switch 2 and creating stronger incentives to pre‑order for earlier access.