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The newest Call of Duty title edges ever closer, as Modern Warfare 4's release date creeps onto the horizon. But gamers don't need to wait until it launches on Friday, October 23 to play.

Activision has officially unveiled the Modern Warfare 4 multiplayer beta schedule, and Nintendo gamers are joining the early testing party for the first time in the series' history. The Open Beta offers a chance for players to sample what's to come but also report back to Activision on bugs that need squashing ahead of launch day. The best part? Participation is completely free.

While there are a couple of catches to dropping into MW4 early, it's an exciting chance to try out the latest in the famous franchise. Here's everything you need to know about the Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta.

The MW4 open beta will be split into two weekends, with the first coming straight after the Call of Duty: NEXT showcase on Friday, August 21. The first weekend of the open beta begins on that date and lasts until Tuesday, August 25.

However, it's only available to PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC players. Gamers must also have pre-ordered a digital version of the game or the special Vault Edition to take part.

The following weekend, however, is open to all gamers on all platforms - including Nintendo Switch 2 owners. No pre-order is needed for the second stage of the open beta, which starts on Friday, August 28 and ends on Tuesday, September 1.

Activision has yet to specify exact times for the beta, other than stating it will begin immediately after the Call of Duty: NEXT on August 21.

It is important to note that, for Switch 2 players, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is needed. The launch dates, times and platform availability of the multiplayer beta are subject to change, but, if it does, the minimum duration will be two days.

One of the key reasons that Nintendo Switch 2 gamers won't be able to play in the first half of the beta is that pre-orders won't have gone live in time for it. Allowing those who haven't already purchased a digital copy of the game to mingle online with others doesn't really seem fair when beta participation is marketed as a perk for pre-orders.

However, that all changes the day after the first weekend of open beta action closes. On Wednesday, August 26, pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 copies of MW4 will go live.

Throughout the multiplayer open beta, players will deploy into several maps and modes to experience a wide range of MW4 action. A variety of playable characters, or Operators, will be available to choose from, with 3v3 skirmishes and huge tactical battles featuring armoured vehicles.

Confirmed modes include Search and Destroy and the brand new Kill Block; a 10v10 Gunfight mode. The Training Mobility Course will also be available.