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Gears of War: E-Day's Open Beta is officially upon us! Loads of players will be getting a chance to check out the new Gears multiplayer in just a few days' time, complete with some exclusive items if you pre-order the game as well.
So, here's a look at everything you need to know about the Gears of War: E-Day Open Beta:
Gears Of War: E-Day Open Beta: Dates And Start Times
The Gears of War: E-Day Open Beta goes ahead on two upcoming weekends. The first weekend is for Xbox Game Pass users and pre-orders only, with a second open beta to follow for all players.
The first early access beta weekend begins August 6th and lasts until August 10th.
The second open beta weekend will then follow August 13th and concluding on August 17th.
How To Get Early Access To The Gears Of War: E-Day Open Beta
There are two ways to take part in the early access period (the first weekend) of this open beta. The first is to pre-order any version of Gears of War: E-Day, and the second is to be an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass member.
Xbox says that digital and physical pre-orders are included here, but physicals require a code from the retailer:
"Beta Codes: Players who digitally pre-order Gears of War: E-Day are automatically granted Early Access to the Open Beta and do not require a Beta Code. Players who pre-order a physical edition should expect to receive a Beta Code at the point of sale from participating retailers, granting entry into Open Beta for Early Access. "
How To Install The Gears Of War: E-Day Open Beta
If you've already pre-ordered Gears of War: E-Day or have a current Xbox Game Pass Ultimate / PC Game Pass membership, you should find that you can already install the beta by going to the "Gears of War: E-Day Multiplayer Beta" page on the official Microsoft Store.
This will allow you to start playing immediately when it goes live on August 6th.
What Are The Pre-Order Items For Gears: E-Day, And Are There Any Open Beta Rewards?
The pre-order items for all versions of Gears of War: E-Day are a Legendary Exfil Dom Character Skin and Legendary Exfil Weapon Skin Set. Those who buy the Premium Edition or Premium Upgrade versions also then get a Bravo Squad Signature Weapon Pack, Emergence Customisation Pack and four seasonal Customisation Packs.
As for the open beta, there's been no word of any exclusive items for taking part in it.
The Coalition posted a full deep dive into multiplayer for Gears: E-Day, so if you fancy a good read ahead of the beta, check out this link.
So, there you go! Hopefully you're all set to check out the Open Beta for Gears of War: E-Day in August, and then don't forget the main game will be playable through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on October 6th.