Image: Activision
Modern Warfare 4’s release is coming in waves for those with Early Access – with the campaign and DMZ moves arriving ahead of the multiplayer suite.
That means you can make a start on the story and dabble in the extraction mode ahead of the headline multiplayer offering on Friday, 23rd October – but only for certain preorders of the game.
This guide explains how Modern Warfare 4’s Early Access works, and the dates and times of each mode available so you know when you can make a start.
How does Modern Warfare 4’s Early Access work?
To access the campaign and DMZ modes ahead of the full Friday, 23rd October release, then you need to pre-order any digital edition of Modern Warfare 4. This applies to all platforms – including Nintendo Switch 2 (as a code-in-the-box release, you’re not missing out much if you go physical).
As well as Early Access to modes, all digital preorders also receive the Hunter Killer Operator Skin and Inner Circuit M4 Weapon Blueprint for use in multiplayer.
Modern Warfare 4 Early Access release dates and times
Modern Warfare 4’s Early Access rolls out as follows:
CampaignFriday, 16th OctoberDMZTuesday, 20th OctoberFull release (including multiplayer for all players)Friday, 23rd October
As for the release time, the campaign is set to start at 10am PT globally, and it’s likely the DMZ mode will be the same come Tuesday. Here’s when in Europe and the Americas:
- BST (UK): 6pm
- CEST (Western Europe): 7pm
- EDT (Eastern Americas): 1pm
- PDT (Western Americas): 10am
Finally, if you want to play as soon as possible, then pre-loading is available now for those who have have a digital pre-order in place.
Are you planning to take advantage of the Early Access periods for Modern Warfare 4? Let us know in the comments.
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Matthew – an award-winning UK-based writer and editor specialising in guides and service articles – joined the Nintendo Life team in May 2026.