Xbox has confirmed that the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 beta, running August 21–25 and August 28–September 1, will include a single-player campaign mission called Entrenched. The test marks the first time a Call of Duty beta has offered story content rather than multiplayer-only access, as reported by IGN.
Here’s the context: Call of Duty betas have historically focused on multiplayer offerings, with the series using pre-release tests to gather early feedback and promote pre-orders ahead of launch. This year’s Modern Warfare 4 beta changes that approach by providing early access to Entrenched alongside multiplayer modes and maps, including the new Zodiac Warzone Resurgence map. Xbox’s CEO announced the inclusion of the campaign mission on social media and also shared a gameplay teaser.
The early-access beta, which follows Call of Duty Next, runs from August 21–25 for players who pre-ordered on PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X|S. Its multiplayer maps include Rooftops, Silkworm, Transit 213, Cachette, Lotus, and Kill Block. Entrenched will also be available during this period.
The open beta follows from August 28–September 1. Entrenched will remain available, while the multiplayer map selection will change: Lotus will be replaced by Lithium. The open beta will also introduce the Zodiac Warzone Resurgence map, and Nintendo Switch 2 users will be able to try Modern Warfare 4 during that period.
- Early access window – August 21–25 for pre-order purchasers on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S
- Open beta window – August 28–September 1, with Nintendo Switch 2 users able to try the game
- Campaign mission – Entrenched, available across both testing periods
- New Warzone content – Zodiac Resurgence map, debuting during the open beta weekend
- Launch date – October 23, 2026, on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S
A different Call of Duty beta format
Including a campaign mission changes the usual scope of a Call of Duty beta. Previous tests have focused on multiplayer, while Modern Warfare 4 will give participants access to a portion of the single-player campaign as well as multiplayer content. The Zodiac Warzone Resurgence map will be added during the open beta weekend.
The reason for this change in pre-release strategy remains unclear. Entrenched will be available across both beta periods.
What to watch
The open beta begins August 28, when Zodiac and the updated multiplayer map selection become available and Nintendo Switch 2 users can try the game. Modern Warfare 4 launches October 23, 2026, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Players interested in the beta can compare Entrenched with the multiplayer and Warzone offerings during the two testing windows ahead of launch.
