Did Call of Duty Drop Early? Unpacking Early Access and Launch Dates

Yes, Call of Duty titles often have periods of early access before their official global launch. This early access is typically granted to players who pre-order the game digitally or purchase specific editions that include this perk. This allows eager fans to dive into at least a portion of the game, such as the campaign or a beta version of the multiplayer mode, before the widespread release. The specifics of early access, like which components of the game are available and for how long, vary from year to year and title to title.

Understanding Call of Duty Release Schedules

The Call of Duty release schedule can be a bit of a maze. Here’s a breakdown of the key terms you’ll encounter:

• Official Launch Date: This is the date when the game is available for everyone to purchase and play.
• Early Access: Pre-order customers or those who buy specific packages of the game can play before the official launch.
• Beta Testing: Before the actual release, Activision frequently holds beta tests for multiplayer modes.

Modern Warfare II and Early Access

Last year, with Modern Warfare II, those who digitally pre-ordered the game received early access to the campaign up to a week before the official launch on October 28th. This allowed players to experience the single-player story before jumping into the multiplayer mayhem.

Modern Warfare III (2023) and Early Access Details

For Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, launching on November 10th, 2023, Activision employed a similar strategy. While a specific “early access” release date wasn’t specifically available to pre-order customers, players did have the opportunity to experience the game ahead of the official release via open beta periods. Specific to the new release, players who preordered could play the game before the official release date via early access to the campaign.

Platforms and Early Access

Historically, some platforms have enjoyed exclusive early access periods for Call of Duty betas. Sony, with its PlayStation consoles, has a long-standing relationship with Activision. In recent years, this has translated into PlayStation users sometimes receiving beta access before Xbox or PC players. However, this isn’t always the case, and the details vary with each new Call of Duty release. Modern Warfare III was also a cross platform release, so there was early access for those who preordered the game.

Time Zones and Launch Times

It’s crucial to remember that Call of Duty games often launch at a specific time globally, which translates differently depending on your time zone. For instance, Modern Warfare II launched at 12:00 AM Eastern Time (ET) on October 28th. This meant that players on the West Coast (Pacific Time) could start playing at 9:00 PM on October 27th. Always check the official announcement from Activision to confirm the exact launch time for your region.

The Allure of Early Access

The hype surrounding a new Call of Duty release is immense. Early access caters to the most dedicated fans, providing a chance to experience the game before the general public and potentially gain an edge in multiplayer. It also builds anticipation and generates buzz, benefiting both players and Activision. Early access can be an incentive to buy the game right away and it can be a good advertising opportunity for Activision.

Call of Duty: A Continuing Legacy

Call of Duty remains one of the biggest franchises in gaming. Its consistent release schedule, coupled with features like early access and ongoing support through Warzone and other updates, ensures that it remains a dominant force in the industry. To further explore the dynamics of gaming communities and the impact of franchises like Call of Duty on culture and learning, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Call of Duty Releases

1. How can I get early access to Call of Duty?

The most common way to secure early access is by pre-ordering a digital copy of the game from a platform’s online store (PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Battle.net, or Steam). In other cases, purchasing a specific edition (like the Vault Edition) will grant you early access perks.

2. Does PlayStation always get Call of Duty early?

While PlayStation has historically enjoyed periods of exclusive early access to Call of Duty betas, this is not always the case. The specific agreements between Sony and Activision can change from year to year.

3. What time does Call of Duty usually drop?

Call of Duty games often launch at midnight Eastern Time (ET) on their release date. However, it’s always best to confirm the specific time with Activision’s official announcements.

4. Is Call of Duty: Warzone free?

Yes, Call of Duty: Warzone is a free-to-play battle royale game. You do not need to own the full version of Call of Duty to play Warzone.

5. Is Call of Duty appropriate for kids?

Call of Duty is generally not appropriate for kids. The game is rated M for Mature (17+) by the ESRB due to blood, violence, language, and drug references. While the game does have a Graphic Content Filter, some settings may be too mature for younger players.

6. Will Call of Duty continue to be on PlayStation?

Microsoft has made commitments to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation for the foreseeable future. The exact terms of these agreements may change over time.

7. What is Call of Duty: Next?

Call of Duty: Next is an event where Activision unveils details about upcoming Call of Duty games, including gameplay previews and announcements.

8. Who is developing Call of Duty 2023 (Modern Warfare III)?

Sledgehammer Games is leading the development of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, in partnership with Infinity Ward.

9. Is the Modern Warfare 2 beta open for everyone?

The Modern Warfare II beta was not open to everyone immediately. Those who pre-ordered could access it early, while a later phase was open to all players.

10. What age is Call of Duty Mobile for?

Although not officially mentioned as having parental controls, COD Mobile is still rated 16+ for intense gameplay.

11. What time is the 2024 Call of Duty set in?

The year is still unknown.

12. Does Call of Duty have an age limit?

Call of Duty is rated for ages 17+, citing “Blood, drug reference, intense violence, language.” However, COD games have a Graphic Content filter that can be toggled on, filtering out blood, gore, and adult language.

13. Is Warzone really free?

Yes, Call of Duty®: Warzone™ is the massive free-to-play combat arena which features Battle Royales, Resurgence and DMZ.

14. How long will Call of Duty be on PS4?

Microsoft has confirmed that its newly-signed Call of Duty deal with Sony will last for at least 10 years.

15. Is it safe to pre-order MW3?

Yes, you are not required to pre-order the game however, those who choose to pre-order receive early access to the beta and early access to the game’s campaign.