The Gears of War series, once a twin pillar of the Xbox console alongside Halo, is gearing up for the release of its latest installment, Gears of War: E-Day, on October 7. With about two months left until the official launch, the developers are kicking off an open beta test to put the multiplayer mode through its paces.

The open beta test for Gears of War: E-Day will run from August 13 to 17. However, players can gain access a week early through pre-orders or a Game Pass subscription. Those who pre-purchase the game on Xbox Series X|S, the Xbox app for PC, or Steam, or who subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass, can participate in the 'Early Access Open Beta Test' from August 6 to 10.

Beta content will vary by week. The 'Early Access Open Beta Test' will feature Horde Siege, a signature PvE multiplayer mode for the Gears of War series. As a culmination of the development team's expertise from previous Horde modes, it is expected to offer a more challenging and fresh experience for long-time fans of the series.

The official open beta, starting August 13, will add a wider variety of content, most notably an improved 4v4 Versus mode. Players will be able to experience both PvE and PvP multiplayer content, with Horde Siege available for those who prefer PvE and the Versus mode for those who enjoy PvP.

Only a portion of the content will be available during this open beta. While the full version of Horde Siege is slated to include three maps and up to level 30, the open beta will be limited to one map and up to level 10. Similarly, the Versus mode will feature four modes and six maps at launch, but only two modes and two maps will be accessible during the open beta.

Exclusive rewards have also been prepared for open beta participants. Rewards are unlocked by completing specific challenges during the test period. Various items, such as the Epic grade 'Explosive Damage Magazine' character skin and the Unique grade 'Bug Crusher' weapon skin set, will be available. Since these skins can be carried over to the full release, high participation is expected.

Detailed schedules and content information for the Gears of War: E-Day open beta can be found on the Steam store page and other official channels.