MW4 DMZ Early Access: How to Play 3 Days Before Launch

Ever wished you could jump into a new Call of Duty mode before your friends? If you're planning to pick up Modern Warfare 4, you might just get that chance—especially if you're curious about the new DMZ.

Activision has confirmed that MW4's extraction-based DMZ mode will be playable early for anyone who preorders the game. The early access kicks off on Tuesday, October 20, which is three days before the full launch. That gives you a head start to learn the maps, test loadouts, and maybe even score some early wins before the rest of the world catches up.

And it's not just DMZ. The campaign also has an early access period, starting on October 16. So if you preorder, you can play the single-player story a full week before launch. That's two major parts of the game you can dive into ahead of time.

How do you get in? Simple: preorder any edition of MW4, whether it's the standard or Vault version. The perk applies across all platforms—PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, and PC. No matter where you play, you're covered.

Now, what exactly is DMZ in MW4? Activision describes it as the "definitive extraction shooter experience." It's an open-world mode where you'll face both AI enemies and other human players. You'll search for loot, craft gear, and complete objectives. But here's the catch: you have to reach the exfil point to escape with your rewards. Die before that, and you lose everything you've collected.

DMZ first appeared as a free-to-play beta inside Warzone alongside 2022's Modern Warfare 3. That version had its issues and left many players wanting more. The new DMZ for MW4 looks like a major upgrade, and it even includes a new social space this time around. For more details, you can check out GameSpot's previous coverage.

So, will you be preordering to get that early access? Or are you waiting to see how the new DMZ shapes up before committing? Let us know in the comments!