Activision has announced the beta schedule for the upcoming Modern Warfare 4, alongside details for this year's Call of Duty: Next event. The annual digital showcase, which typically debuts multiplayer gameplay, will take place on August 21st and will be an entirely online global event.
Following the Call of Duty: Next broadcast, the Modern Warfare 4 beta will commence. The first phase, running from August 21st to August 25th, is exclusive to players who have pre-ordered the game and will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. The second phase, an open beta, will then run from August 28th to September 1st across the same platforms.
Notably, the second phase of the beta will also be playable on the Nintendo Switch 2 for the first time. Activision confirmed that pre-orders for the Switch 2 version will begin on August 26th.
While specific details about beta content remain scarce, Activision has indicated it will feature 19 weapons and a variety of maps, ranging from small 3v3 arenas to larger vehicular combat zones. The beta will include the Search & Destroy mode, as well as a new mode called Kill Block. A Training Mobility Course is also planned, designed to familiarize players with the game's new movement mechanics.
This announcement follows recent gameplay livestreams from Fanatics Fest NYC, where selected creators provided early multiplayer demonstrations. These initial showings reportedly divided player opinion, with some expressing concern over the perceived rapid combat pace and high character movement speed.
Modern Warfare 4 is slated for release on October 23rd for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and the Nintendo Switch 2.