Activision has published the schedule for the Modern Warfare 4 beta, with an early-access period from Aug. 21 through Aug. 25 and an open beta period from Aug. 28 through Sept. 1. The dates apply to the staged testing schedule described in the company’s support information.

Players who preorder the game can receive early access. Activision says digital preorders do not require a separate beta code, while eligible physical or retailer preorders may use the access method supplied by the retailer. The exact process therefore depends on how the game was purchased.

The open beta is scheduled to follow the early-access window. That second period is intended for players who do not have early access, subject to the availability and platform requirements listed by Activision. The support page is the controlling source for access instructions and timing.

Modern Warfare 4 is scheduled to launch on Oct. 23. The beta dates are earlier testing windows and should not be treated as the game’s full release date. Activision’s published details also list supported platforms and the preorder conditions associated with early access.

PC Gamer reported the daily Pacific Time start and end times for the two beta phases. Players in other time zones should convert those times carefully and check the official support page for any update before attempting to join.

The main Activision Modern Warfare 4 beta point is that early access and open access are separate periods. A code is not automatically required for every player, and digital preorder customers should follow Activision’s account and platform instructions rather than rely on unverified code listings.