Activision has announced that the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 multiplayer beta will begin in August. For the first time, players on all platforms will join together at the same time. This change comes as Activision, now part of Microsoft, opens the beta to everyone who preorders the game or has a Game Pass subscription.
(Photo : Treyarch, Raven Software, Beenox, High Moon Studios, Activision Shanghai, Sledgehammer Games, Infinity Ward, Demonware / Screenshot taken from Steam.)
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Unified Beta Testing
In previous years, the Call of Duty beta tests were staggered, with PlayStation users getting early access. This tradition, dating back to Black Ops 3 in 2015, saw PlayStation players enjoying an exclusive opening weekend, while others had to wait. However, this year, there will be no platform divisions. Instead, anyone who preorders Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 or subscribes to Game Pass will access the first beta weekend from August 30 to September 4. The second beta weekend, from September 6 to September 9, will be open to everyone.
During the beta, players can experience new features like Omnimovement and explore various maps created by Treyarch. They can build loadouts, use different weapons, equipment, and Perks, and team up with friends in various game modes. Those who preorder the Vault Edition of Black Ops 6 will get extra perks, including access to four operators from the Hunters vs. Hunted pack and five weapons from the Masterclass Collection.
Details and Requirements
The full details of the beta will be revealed during the Call of Duty: Next showcase on August 28, just before the early access period starts. An interesting note in the beta announcement mentions that an active subscription to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass PC, or Game Pass Console is required for access. This has raised questions, especially since Game Pass is not available on PlayStation consoles. Activision is expected to clarify this soon.
Call of Duty was a significant point of contention in Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Sony opposed the buyout, fearing the game would become an Xbox exclusive. To address these concerns, Microsoft signed 10-year deals with multiple companies, including Sony, ensuring Call of Duty remains available across platforms.
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