For the first time in years, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is breaking tradition with its beta release. Historically, PlayStation users enjoyed exclusive early access to the game’s beta, leaving other platform players to wait.
This year with Black Ops 6, the beta will be available simultaneously across all platforms. Game Pass subscribers and pre-order customers can dive in early from August 30 to September 4, followed by an open beta for all players from September 6 to 9.
The Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Beta Is a Free for All
In previous years, Call of Duty betas have typically favored PlayStation users due to contractual obligations with Sony. However, with Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, this has now changed.
For the first time in years, players on all platforms can play the beta together from the start. Massive W.
— Matt (@GamemasterYado) July 15, 2024
Pre-ordering Black Ops 6 or being a Game Pass subscriber grants early access to the beta from August 30 to September 4. Following this, the open beta will be available to all players from September 6 to September 9.
The Call of Duty community has been quick to praise this move and the news surrounding Black Ops 6. With the somewhat troubling history that the franchise has had with its last few releases, this could be what it needs.
The upcoming beta will showcase the new and improved features of the game. This includes the new Omnimovement system that allows players to sprint, dive, and prone in any direction. Additionally, the return of round-based Zombies mode and the classic Prestige system should be nostalgic favorites for long-time fans of the series.
i'm so there
— SteelSeries (@SteelSeries) July 15, 2024
Alongside the multiplayer focus, Black Ops 6 also introduces a new campaign set against the backdrop of the Cold War’s end in 1991. This should be a suspenseful depiction of the time, echoing the series’ hallmark themes of espionage.
Could the Next Black Ops Bring the Franchise Back?
Alongside the beta, the new official podcast “The COD POD” was launched and it gives fans exclusive insights into the game. The first episode featured discussions on the game’s 1991 Cold War setting and returning new and old features like the Omnimovement and Prestige systems.
Black Ops 6 is set to release on October 25 on PlayStation 4|5, PC, Xbox One, and Series X|S. The inclusive beta for the game shows a player-first mentality, breaking away from the previous exclusivity.
This decision not only fosters a more unified player community but also showcases the benefits of Microsoft’s strategic acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Will you be getting into the beta when it comes out? Let us know in the comments!