Gears 5 Multiplayer Test Starts Soon: How To Get In, PC Requirements, Modes, And More

The next Gears of War game, Gears 5, launches in September, but developer The Coalition is letting people play early through a beta test of sort that it’s calling a multiplayer technical test. The studio has now shared more details about the technical test periods, including when they’re available, how to get in, what’s in them, and more. Here’s what you need to know about the first of at least two tests that we know are coming before the game releases on September 10.

When Does It Start?

There will be multiple tests, the first of which begins July 19 at 10 AM PT. It runs through July 21, with a second beta starting July 26 at 10 AM PT and ending on July 29. The beta client can be downloaded starting on July 17 at 10 PM PT, but servers won’t be online until later.

What Platforms Is It On?

As with the full version of the game, the Gears 5 multiplayer technical test will be available on both Xbox One and PC. (There’s a chance Gears 5 comes to Xbox Scarlett eventually, too.)

How To Get In

All Xbox Game Pass members can get in to the Gears 5 multiplayer tech test at no extra cost. The tech test will appear in your library automatically. Alternatively, everyone who pre-orders Gears 5, digitally or on a disc, gets access to the tech test weekends. Xbox Live Gold is required.

What’s In It?

The following multiplayer modes will be available in the Gears 5 tech test:

• Escalation — the refreshed competitive mode
• Arcade — the new, “approachable” mode
• King of the Hill — you know what this is
• Bootcamp — a place to practice skills and learn the mechanics

The new Tour of Duty event is also in the tech test. This comprises a series of challenges that reward you with extra content, including a Tech Test banner. You can also earn three versus weapon skins for beating “some additional challenges,” though they were not described.

Queues

According to The Coalition, players might have to wait before getting into matches. “Because this Tech Test is to help test our servers, you might encounter some queueing as you start to play. We hope to make Gears 5 a great online experience for all players and Xbox Game Pass members on launch, and this Tech Test will help,” The Coalition said.

Minimum And Recommended PC Specs

Those playing on PC can check out the minimum and recommended specs listed below. These are subject to change for the full release come September.

Another Beta Is Coming

The Coalition is also planning to hold a technical test for the fan-favourite Horde mode. It’s scheduled to begin in August, but no firm dates or details have been shared yet.

In other news about Gears 5, the game has no season pass, so post-release DLC maps are free. There are also no random loot boxes.

Gears 5 follows Kat Diaz (played by Laura Bailey, Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End’s Nadine Ross) as she searches to uncover the truth behind her heritage and her connection to the Locust. The game launches on September 10, but you could get access on September 6, depending on exactly how you’re getting the game.