The Gears of War: E Day multiplayer beta can now be preloaded on Xbox Series X and Series S and through the Xbox PC app, giving eligible players time to install it before the first testing period begins.
Early access is available to players who preordered the game or subscribe to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass. The first beta period runs from August 6 to August 10, followed by an open beta from August 13 to August 17 that anyone can join.
The beta requires a little over 62GB on Xbox Series X. Its multiplayer content is divided between Horde Siege and Versus, with each component listed at 39.1GB.
Versus has been added to the early access weekend
The original plan would have limited the August 6 to August 10 early access period to the new Horde Siege mode, while Versus PvP was scheduled to become available during the following open beta.
That plan has now changed.
Following player feedback, Versus has also been enabled for the early access beta and is available for predownload. This means eligible players can test both Horde Siege and competitive PvP during the first weekend rather than waiting until August 13.
| Beta period | Dates | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Early Access Beta | August 6 to August 10 | Preorders, Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass |
| Open Beta | August 13 to August 17 | Available to everyone |
| Modes | Horde Siege and Versus | Versus added to early access after feedback |
| Xbox Series X download | Just over 62GB | Preload available now |
The early access beta begins at 12pm PT and 8pm BST on August 6 and finishes at 10am PT and 6pm BST on August 10.
The public open beta starts at the same time on August 13 and ends on August 17.
How to preload the E Day beta
Eligible players can search for the Gears of War: E Day Multiplayer Beta through the Xbox Store.
The full download is available to players with a preorder beta code and active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass subscribers. PC players can install it through the Xbox app.
The beta installation is separated into Horde Siege and Versus components. Although both are listed at 39.1GB individually, the total Series X installation is reported at a little more than 62GB.
Horde Siege is a redesigned version of the series' cooperative mode, while Versus provides the traditional competitive multiplayer component.
The open beta weekend will then remove the early access requirement, allowing everyone to test the multiplayer before the full game's launch.
Gears of War E Day launches in October
Gears of War: E Day is scheduled to release on October 6, 2026 for Xbox Series X and Series S. The Coalition is developing the game, with Xbox Game Studios publishing it.
The August multiplayer beta provides the first broad opportunity for players to test its online modes ahead of launch.
With Versus now included during early access, preorder customers and eligible Game Pass members will have access to both major beta modes from August 6, while everyone else can join when the open test begins on August 13.
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