Gears of War E-Day beta dates, early access, and how to play

The open beta for Gears of War: E-Day will preview two multiplayer modes before the game's official launch on October 6. The free test is open to everyone, with an exclusive early access period for pre-orders and Xbox Game Pass subscribers starting Thursday. Early access runs from August 6 to 10 for those who pre-ordered on Xbox or Steam, plus Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass members. The open beta for all players runs from August 13 to 17, though console players need an Xbox Game Pass Essential subscription or higher. The first weekend features Horde Siege, a 12-player cooperative PvE mode. The open beta adds the Versus 4v4 mode with new movement mechanics. Completing challenges unlocks exclusive rewards like character skins and banners for the full game.