Gears of War E-Day early access beta adds PvP mode

The developer of Gears of War EDay has added a competitive multiplayer mode to an upcoming early access beta weekend following player feedback, expanding the test period just days before it begins. The early access beta for the highly anticipated prequel is scheduled to run from August 6 through August 10.

Initially, the early access period was focused solely on the cooperative Horde Siege mode, a decision that drew complaints from some fans who had expected to also test player-versus-player (PvP) Versus modes. These expectations were fueled by pre-release previews that had shown content creators playing Versus. In response to the feedback, developer The Coalition announced the addition of Versus to the beta, stating via social media that they had listened and acted. The Versus client is now available for pre-download, though an official list of maps and specific game modes has not yet been revealed.

Access to this first beta weekend is granted to players who have pre-ordered the game on Xbox or Steam, as well as to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers. The beta is scheduled to begin on August 6 at 12 p.m. Pacific Time. A second, fully open beta weekend is...