The anticipation for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is heating up, and while the full release isn’t here yet, the beta version is now available for download. If you’re excited to get a sneak peek at the game, you’ll need to know how to download and access the beta. Don’t worry; this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to download Black Ops 6 beta.
Getting Started: The Basics
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of downloading the beta, let’s cover some basics. The Black Ops 6 beta gives players a chance to experience the game before its official release in October. It’s a great way to test out new features, provide feedback, and get a feel for what’s to come. However, it’s important to remember that this is just a beta version, so you might encounter bugs or unfinished content.
How to Download the Black Ops 6 Beta
1. Preorder Requirements
To gain access to the beta, you typically need to preorder Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Preordering the game is a common practice for getting early access to betas. If you’ve already done this, great! You should be all set to start the download. If not, you might want to consider preordering if you’re eager to join in early.
2. Using Call of Duty HQ
If you’ve preordered, the next step involves using Call of Duty HQ. This platform helps manage your Call of Duty games and updates. Here’s how to use it:
- Download Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone Season 5 Reloaded: These are prerequisites for accessing the Black Ops 6 Beta. They will be available through Call of Duty HQ.
- Automatic Beta Download: Once these games are installed, Call of Duty HQ will automatically start downloading the Black Ops 6 Beta.
For those without Call of Duty HQ, you can still get the beta:
- Access Your Platform’s Store: Open the store for your gaming system (PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam, etc.).
- Search for Black Ops 6: Locate the Black Ops 6 listing.
- Select and Download: Click on the download button to begin.
3. Redeeming Beta Codes
If you preordered Black Ops 6 from a retail store, you should have received a 13-digit beta code. Here’s how to redeem it:
- Visit the Official Call of Duty Website: Go to the Call of Duty website on your browser.
- Log In: Use your account credentials to log in.
- Select Your Platform: Choose whether you’re on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, or Battle.net.
- Enter Your Beta Code: Input the code and redeem it.
After redeeming the code, you’ll receive an Early Access Beta Token via email. Use this token to start playing the beta.
4. Getting a Free Beta Code
If you’re an Xfinity member, you’re in luck! Xfinity is offering free beta codes. To get one:
- Visit the Xfinity Website: Open the Xfinity site and navigate to the rewards section.
- Join the Program: Follow the on-screen instructions to sign up.
- Claim Your Reward: Look for the Black Ops 6 beta reward and click on it.
- Redeem the Code: Once you have the code, go to the Call of Duty website and redeem it.
Beta Access Dates and Preloading
The early access for the Black Ops 6 Beta starts on August 30, 2024, at 10 AM PT, and ends on September 4, 2024, at 10 AM PT. If you haven’t preordered, the open beta will be available from September 6 to September 9.
Preload Dates: Early access preloading began on August 28. If you haven’t preloaded yet, now’s the time!
How to Preload the Black Ops 6 Beta
On PlayStation (PS5/PS4)
- Open the PlayStation Store: Search for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
- Navigate to the Game Page: Find the game’s page and click the three-dot menu next to the pre-order button.
- Select Beta: Choose “Beta” from the list and click “Download.”
- Using Call of Duty HQ: If you have Call of Duty HQ, open it and select Black Ops 6 to start downloading the beta. If you already have Warzone or Modern Warfare 3 with Season 5.5, it will be a small update rather than a full download.
On Xbox (Series X/S and Xbox One)
- Open the Microsoft Store: Search for Black Ops 6.
- Pre-Install: Click “Pre-Install” and follow the prompts to start the download.
- Update Information: If you have Warzone or Modern Warfare 3 with Season 5.5, it will be a minor update.
On PC (Battle.net and Steam)
Battle.net:
- Open Battle.net: Go to the Call of Duty section.
- Modify Install: Click “Settings” next to the Play button and choose “Modify Install.”
- Select Black Ops 6: Confirm the install and click “Start Update.”
Steam:
- Search for Black Ops 6: Look it up in your Steam library.
- Download the Beta: Click on the beta version and start the download.
Download Sizes for the Beta
The download size varies based on your platform and existing installations. Here are some estimates:
- PlayStation 5: 34 GB (with MW3 installed), 80 GB (without)
- PlayStation 4: 15 GB (with MW3), 67 GB (without)
- Xbox Series X/S: 35 GB (with MW3), 75 GB (without)
- Xbox One: 17 GB (with MW3), 52 GB (without)
- PC (Battle.net/Steam): Approximately 32-74 GB, depending on existing installations.
What to Expect from the Beta
The Black Ops 6 beta is more than just a taste of the game. It includes several exciting features and rewards:
- Unlock Special Rewards: Players can earn exclusive in-game rewards like emblems, sprays, and a unique Operator skin by reaching specific levels during the beta.
- Game Modes and Maps: Over the two weekends of the beta, you’ll get to experience various maps and game modes. The first weekend will feature 6 maps, while the second weekend will unlock additional maps and features. Expect to see classic modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Hardpoint.
Final Thoughts
The Black Ops 6 Beta is a thrilling opportunity to dive into the game before its official launch. Whether you’re preordering, redeeming a code, or accessing a free beta code, getting started is relatively straightforward. Just follow these steps, preload the beta, and get ready to enjoy some early gameplay.
Remember, this beta version is a work in progress, so while you might encounter some issues, your feedback can help shape the final game. Happy gaming, and enjoy your early access to Black Ops 6!