If you’re eager to jump into the action of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and have a Game Pass subscription, you’re in luck. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to access the beta, ensuring you can be among the first to experience the latest installment in the popular Black Ops series.
Understanding the Beta Phases
The Black Ops 6 beta is divided into two key phases. The first phase, which is early access, is available to those who pre-ordered the game. The second phase is an open beta available to everyone, including Game Pass subscribers.
- Early Access Phase: This phase runs from August 30 to September 4, 2024. However, to participate, you need to have pre-ordered the game on any platform, including Xbox, PlayStation, or PC.
- Open Beta Phase: This phase begins on September 6 and ends on September 9, 2024. During this period, anyone with Game Pass can download and play the beta without needing to pre-order the game.
Preloading the Beta
Preloading the beta is crucial, especially if you want to dive into the action as soon as the servers go live. Preloading started on August 28, 2024, allowing players to download the beta files ahead of time.
To preload:
- Xbox Users: Go to the Microsoft Store on your Xbox, search for Black Ops 6 Beta, and initiate the download. If you have Warzone or Modern Warfare 3 installed, the update will be added to these titles automatically.
- PC Users: If you are using the Xbox Game Pass for PC, you can preload the beta through the Microsoft Store. Steam and Battle.net users can find the beta in their respective stores.
- File Size: The beta download size varies depending on your platform but generally ranges between 50GB to 80GB. Xbox Series X|S users, for example, will need approximately 75GB of free space.
Playing the Beta with Game Pass
Once the open beta phase begins, Game Pass subscribers can access the beta directly. Follow these steps:
- Launch Xbox Game Pass: Open the Game Pass app on your Xbox or PC.
- Search for Black Ops 6 Beta: In the search bar, type “Black Ops 6 Beta” and select it from the results.
- Download and Install: Click on the download button. Ensure you have enough storage space based on the platform-specific requirements.
- Play the Beta: Once the download is complete, launch the game from your library and start playing.
Key Features and What to Expect
The Black Ops 6 beta offers a sneak peek into the game’s new features, modes, and maps:
- Maps: The beta includes a mix of core and strike maps such as Skyline, Rewind, Scud, and Derelict. Expect close-quarters combat, especially in the smaller Strike maps.
- Game Modes: Familiar modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Hardpoint return, alongside new additions like Kill Order, which introduces a High-Value Target mechanic.
- Progression and Unlocks: The beta allows players to level up and unlock various loadouts, perks, and equipment. Levels 1 through 25 offer a variety of rewards, from basic loadouts to powerful scorestreaks like the UAV and Counter UAV.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection to avoid lag and disconnections during matches.
- Storage Management: The beta is hefty in size, so make sure you have ample storage available on your console or PC.
- Reporting Bugs: As with any beta, expect some bugs. Reporting them through the game’s feedback system helps developers fine-tune the final release.
Playing the Black Ops 6 beta through Game Pass is straightforward and grants you a solid preview of what to expect from the full game. Whether you’re a veteran of the series or a newcomer, the beta provides an excellent opportunity to get accustomed to the new mechanics, maps, and modes before the official release.
