Beta Test Schedule and Access

Fans eager to experience Gears of War: E-Day ahead of its October 6, 2026, release can participate in two upcoming beta weekends. These sessions are designed to help developers refine the multiplayer experience.


Early Access Weekend

The first phase runs from August 6, 2026 (12:00 pm PT) to August 10, 2026 (10:00 am PT). Participation is limited to players who have pre-ordered the game on Steam or Xbox Series X|S, as well as those with an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass subscription. To download, users should check their platform's digital library or redeem the code provided for physical pre-orders.


Open Beta Weekend

The second phase is open to all players on all supported platforms. It runs from August 13, 2026 (12:00 pm PT) to August 17, 2026 (10:00 am PT). No pre-order is required, and the client can be found on the Xbox or Steam storefronts.


Note: Xbox users must have at least an Xbox Game Essentials subscription. Steam users do not require a Microsoft account to play, though linking one is necessary for cross-play functionality.


Modes and Exclusive Rewards

Each beta period offers different gameplay experiences:

  • Early Access: Features the 12-player "Horde Siege" mode.
  • Open Beta: Includes both "Horde Siege" and the competitive 4v4 Versus mode.

Players who participate and complete specific challenges can earn exclusive in-game rewards that carry over to the full release, including:

  • Epic Blast Damage Mags Character Skin: Awarded for reaching a specific player level.
  • Rare Crush the Bug Weapon Skin Set: Earned by completing Horde Siege on Infantry difficulty or higher eight times.
  • Crush the Bug Banner and Emblem: Unlocked by performing 25 headshots and 10 revives, respectively.

PC Requirements

To participate on PC, ensure your system meets the preliminary requirements provided by The Coalition. Please note that these specifications may change before the final launch.


Minimum Requirements:

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 2600X / Intel i7-6850K / Intel i5-10400
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050 / RTX 2060 or AMD Radeon RX 9060 / RX 6600
  • OS: Windows 10/11 (22H2)

Recommended Performance Specs (1440p, 60fps):

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600 / Intel i5-11600K
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 / RTX 3060 Ti or AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT / RX 6700 XT

Users are advised to update to NVIDIA GeForce Game Ready Driver 610.74 or later to ensure the game functions correctly.