Modern Warfare 4 beta PC checklist.
Published • Updated . This page tracks official beta timing and practical PC preparation without treating a beta build as final-release performance.
Official beta schedule
Call of Duty says Early Access runs from August 21 at 11:00 AM PT through August 25 at 10:00 AM PT. The Open Beta is scheduled for August 28 at 10:00 AM PT through September 1 at 10:00 AM PT and is open to all players without a preorder.
Latest official beta changes: August 22
Infinity Ward's August 22 beta notes say footstep volume was adjusted downward after player feedback, weapon lethality was reduced as part of time-to-kill tuning, and a new map and mode were being added to the Multiplayer rotation. The studio also said Weekend Two is planned to raise the player-level cap, unlock more Multiplayer content and add Warzone Resurgence on the new Zodiac map.
Read official beta patch notes →
PC checklist before you download
- Check free storage space. Keep extra headroom beyond the download itself because patches and temporary install files can require additional space.
- Use a current stable GPU driver when it matters. If a vendor release specifically adds MW4 beta support or fixes a problem you have, it is more relevant than updating blindly. Radeon users can also see our AMD Adrenalin 26.8.1 explainer.
- Close unnecessary background apps. Browsers, capture tools and overlays can use memory, CPU time or GPU resources.
- Confirm your display refresh rate. Windows and the game should both be set to the refresh rate you actually intend to use.
- Keep your mouse settings recorded. Write down DPI and sensitivity before experimenting so you can return to your baseline.
- Expect changes. A beta is not a finished benchmark. Balance, performance and settings can change between beta weekends and release.
Do not treat beta performance as final release performance
Beta builds are used for testing. Server load, shaders, drivers, map-specific performance and patches can all affect frame rate or responsiveness. If you compare performance, use the same map, resolution, graphics preset and background-app conditions each time.
Useful NexusNova tools for PC prep
Use the Storage Size Converter when comparing download and free-space figures, the Gaming Settings Notes to save a baseline, the FPS & Frame-Time Calculator for performance targets, and the eDPI Calculator for mouse settings.
Sources and update policy
Schedule and access details come from Call of Duty's official beta guide. Gameplay-change details come from Infinity Ward's official beta patch notes. Because this is a live beta, NexusNova updates this page when a meaningful official change affects the checklist rather than publishing a separate page for every small patch.