The Gears of War: E-Day multiplayer open beta is scheduled for August 2026, split across two distinct weekends. Players can access the test on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
Beta Schedule and Start Times
Access is divided into an initial early access period followed by an open beta window for all players.
- Early Access Weekend: August 6 – August 10, 2026
- Open Beta Weekend: August 13 – August 17, 2026
The global start time for both periods is 7:00 PM UTC. Localized times include:
- North America: 12:00 PM PDT / 3:00 PM EDT
- UK/Ireland: 8:00 PM BST
- Europe: 9:00 PM CEST
How to Access the Beta
Participation in the first weekend (August 6–10) requires early access eligibility, which can be obtained through one of two methods:
- Pre-order: Digital pre-orders are granted access automatically. Physical pre-orders require a beta code provided by the retailer at the point of sale.
- Subscription: Active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass members are granted access.
To install the test client, navigate to the Gears of War: E-Day Multiplayer Beta page on the official Microsoft Store.
Beta Rewards
Players can unlock exclusive cosmetic items by completing specific challenges during the beta:
- Epic Blast Damage Mags Character Skin: Reach Player Level 20.
- Rare Crush the Bug Weapon Skin Set: Extract from Horde Siege 8 times on Infantry difficulty or higher.
- Crush the Bug Banner: Achieve 25 headshots.
- Crush the Bug Emblem: Perform 10 revives.
- Crush the Bug Icon: Perform 5 prototype Lancer chainsaw executions.
- Open Beta Medal & First in the Fight Title: Launch the multiplayer beta.
The full release of Gears of War: E-Day is scheduled for October 6, 2026, and will be available via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.