MW4 Open Beta Start Time: When Modern Warfare 4 Goes Live
By Luke Setzer · Updated 8/24/2026
The Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta starts on August 28 at 10:00 AM PT and runs through September 1. That is 6:00 PM in the UK (BST) and 7:00 PM in Central Europe (CEST). It is open to everyone on all platforms, with no pre-order needed.
The Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta is the last hands-on before the October 23 launch, and this weekend it is open to everyone. Here is exactly when it starts in your region, how long it runs, and what is new.
When does the MW4 Open Beta start?
The MW4 Open Beta Weekend starts on August 28 at 10:00 AM PT and runs through September 1. No pre-order is needed, and it goes live on all platforms.
Open Beta start times by region
- Pacific (PT): 10:00 AM, August 28
- Eastern (ET): 1:00 PM, August 28
- UK (BST): 6:00 PM (18:00), August 28
- Central Europe (CEST): 7:00 PM (19:00), August 28
How long is the Open Beta?
It runs from August 28 through September 1, so you get the full weekend. After that the beta closes and the beta rewards are gone until the full game.
Who can play, and how?
The Open Beta Weekend is open to everyone on PlayStation, Xbox, PC and Nintendo Switch 2, with no pre-order required. If you pre-ordered, you already had the Early Access weekend (August 21 to 25); the Open Beta simply opens it up to all. Download the beta from your platform store ahead of time so you can jump in the moment it goes live.
New maps, weapons and modes to expect
Activision usually holds back more content for the Open Beta weekend, so expect new maps and modes on top of the Early Access build, and likely more weapons to try. The exact additions get confirmed at Call of Duty NEXT and closer to the date. The full Modern Warfare 4 on October 23 will bring even more, plus balance changes, so treat the beta as a preview, not the final meta.
Get ready for the Open Beta
The Open Beta is your last shot at the beta rewards and a head start on leveling before launch. Line up your loadouts with our MW4 beta best loadouts and classes, grab the beta rewards before they are gone, and if the clock is tight, learn to level your guns fast or let a pro handle gun leveling and bot lobbies.
FAQ
When does the MW4 Open Beta start?
The Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta starts on August 28 at 10:00 AM PT and runs through September 1. That is 6:00 PM in the UK and 7:00 PM in Central Europe.
What time is the MW4 Open Beta in the UK?
6:00 PM (18:00) BST on August 28. It runs through September 1.
What time is the MW4 Open Beta in Central Europe?
7:00 PM (19:00) CEST on August 28, one hour ahead of the UK. It runs through September 1.
Do I need to pre-order for the MW4 Open Beta?
No. The Open Beta Weekend is open to everyone on all platforms with no pre-order. Pre-order was only needed for the earlier Early Access weekend (August 21 to 25).
Are there new maps and weapons in the Open Beta?
Activision usually adds new maps and modes for the Open Beta weekend, with more weapons likely. The exact additions are confirmed at Call of Duty NEXT and closer to the date, and the October 23 launch brings even more plus balance changes.
When does the MW4 Open Beta end?
The Open Beta ends on September 1. After that the beta and its rewards are gone until the full game launches on October 23.