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How to play the Battlefield 2042 open beta

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The time has finally arrived, and Battlefield fans are eager to get their hands on the next installment in EA DICE’s iconic series. The Battlefield 2042 open beta goes live on October 8 at 07:00 UTC. However, those who pre-ordered the game will have early access. Here’s how to play the Battlefield 2042 open beta and what players can expect from this preview.

How to play the Battlefield 2042 open beta on PlayStation 4 and 5

Player flying with a wing suit in Battlefield 2042.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

To play the Battlefield 2042 open beta on PlayStation 4 and 5, head over to the PlayStation Store and search Battlefield 2042. You’ll see the open beta available for free download. The open beta is currently available for pre-load. Install the game now, and don’t miss out on any of the action.

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You do not have to pre-order the game to gain general access to the open beta on October 8. You do not need a PS Plus subscription to play the Battlefield 2042 open beta either.

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How to play Battlefield 2042 open beta on Xbox and PC

Like PlayStation, you can pre-load the open beta via the Xbox Store, Steam, Epic, and Origin. However, Xbox players will need an Xbox Live Gold subscription to access and play the open beta.

Battlefield 2042 early access

If you pre-ordered Battlefield 2042, you’ll gain access to the open beta 48 hours before everyone else. Pre-orders can play starting on October 6 at 07:00 UTC, while everyone else is barred until October 8. There is still time to pre-order Battlefield 2042 if you’re looking for early access. The beta ends on October 9, so pre-orders will get several full days of gaming.

The Battlefield 2042 open beta is currently available for download via the PlayStation Store and Xbox Store for console, and Steam, Epic, and Origin for PC Players. Old-gen players can also participate in the open beta, giving a much-needed Battlefield win to PS4 and Xbox One Players.

Is the Battlefield 2042 open beta crossplay?

Yes, the Battlefield 2042 open beta supports crossplay. PlayStation, Xbox, and PC players can play together in what’s supposed to be the ultimate Battlefield experience. However, your progression in the beta will not carry over to the main game at launch.

What can we expect?

Orbital map from Battlefield 2042.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

According to EA, players can expect a slice of what Battlefield 2042 has to offer. Per EA’s FAQ page:

“Put boots on the ground in the classic Conquest mode on Orbital — a map where enemy fire and chaotic weather conditions can help or hinder your fight.” – EA

Orbital, as seen in the trailer, is the map with the rocket ship launch. While players were probably hoping to experience the first tornado in Battlefield history, they’ll have to settle for a launching spaceship. Perhaps the tornado will make an appearance? We’re eager to find out.

It looks like we’ll only be playing conquest mode, which isn’t too bad considering it’s the preferred way to play any Battlefield game. However, we’re hoping to see how these natural disasters pan out and if they truly shake up the game.

Other than the apparent map and game mode limitations, there’s no reason to believe players won’t have full access to every Specialist, weapon, and map-specific vehicle in Battlefield 2042.

Battlefield 2042 officially releases on November 19, 2021, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

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Mike Colucci
Mike Colucci
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Michael Colucci is a lifelong video game fan based out of the greater Boston area. He's the one insistent on searching every…
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