The early access multiplayer beta for Gears of War: E-Day is set to begin on Thursday, August 6, offering players a preview of the game's upcoming features. Access to this beta is exclusive to individuals who have pre-ordered the game or subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass.
The beta will commence at 3 p.m. EDT on Thursday, August 6. This translates to 12 p.m. PDT on the west coast of North America, 4 p.m. BRT in Brazil, 8 p.m. BST in the United Kingdom, and 9 p.m. CEST in Western Europe. For players in Japan, the start time is 4 a.m. JST on Friday, August 7, and for those on the east coast of Australia, it is 5 a.m. AEST on Friday, August 7.
The early access period will conclude on Monday, August 10, at 1 p.m. EDT. This corresponds to 10 a.m. PDT in North America, 2 p.m. BRT in Brazil, 6 p.m. BST in the United Kingdom, and 7 p.m. CEST in Western Europe. The beta ends at 2 a.m. JST on Tuesday, August 11, for Japan and 3 a.m. AEST on Tuesday, August 11, for eastern Australia.
During the beta, players will have the opportunity to experience Horde Siege mode, described as an evolution of the franchise's signature PvE experience. This mode will feature four distinct classes and two invasion bosses, with a level cap of 10. The full game, scheduled for release on October 6, will expand upon this with additional Versus modes, more Horde Siege maps, medals, invasion bosses, and other content.
Players participating in the beta can earn exclusive cosmetic rewards by completing specific challenges. These include the Epic "Blast Damage Mags" character skin for reaching player level 20, and the Rare "Crush the Bug Weapon" skin set for extracting from Horde Siege eight times on Infantry difficulty or higher. Further rewards include a "Crush the Bug" banner for 25 headshots, a "Crush the Bug" emblem for performing 10 revives, and a "Crush the Bug" icon for executing five Prototype Lancer Chainsaw executions. Additionally, launching the multiplayer beta will grant the "Open Beta" medal and the "First in the Fight" title.
For those eager to participate, Gears of War: E-Day is available for pre-load now.