How to Play Call of Duty (COD) Early: A Comprehensive Guide
Call of Duty is one of the most anticipated game franchises in the world, and fans are always eager to get their hands on the latest installment as soon as possible. If you’re wondering how to play COD early, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through the legitimate ways to play Call of Duty before its official release date.
Understanding Early Access Options
Before diving into the methods, it’s important to understand that early access to Call of Duty is typically limited and often tied to specific editions of the game or special programs. Here are the most common ways to play COD early:
1. Pre-Order Special Editions
One of the most straightforward ways to play Call of Duty early is by pre-ordering a special edition of the game. Many retailers offer early access as a bonus for pre-ordering, especially for premium editions like the “Ultimate Edition” or “Collector’s Edition.” These editions often include a few days of early playtime, allowing you to jump into the game before the official launch.
Example: For Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, players who pre-ordered the “Vault Edition” received five days of early access to the campaign mode. This not only gave them a head start but also allowed them to experience the game’s story before the official release.
2. Join the Call of Duty Insider Program
Activision, the publisher of Call of Duty, offers an Insider Program that rewards loyal fans with exclusive content, including early access to beta tests and, in some cases, early play sessions. By signing up for the program, you can increase your chances of playing COD early.
Steps to Join:

Visit the official Call of Duty website.
Sign up for the Insider Program using your email.
Complete your profile to receive updates and notifications.

3. Participate in Beta Testing
Beta testing is another great way to play Call of Duty early. Beta tests are typically held a few weeks before the official release and allow players to experience multiplayer modes, test new features, and provide feedback to the developers. While beta testing doesn’t give you access to the full game, it’s an excellent way to get a sneak peek and refine your skills before the official launch.
How to Access Beta:

Pre-order the game from participating retailers.
Follow Call of Duty on social media for beta codes.
Join the Insider Program for a chance to receive a beta invite.

4. Take Advantage of Regional Release Times
If you’re in a region where the game launches earlier due to time zones, you can potentially start playing Call of Duty a few hours before others. For example, players in Australia and New Zealand often get access to games earlier than those in North America and Europe. This method requires a VPN to change your region, but it’s a popular workaround among eager players.
Important Note: Be cautious when using VPNs, as some games may have region-locking mechanisms or terms of service that prohibit this practice.
5. Look Out for Early Access Events
Occasionally, Activision and its partners host early access events for select groups of players. These events are usually announced through official channels, and they may require you to meet specific criteria, such as being a loyal customer or an active member of the Call of Duty community.
Example: In 2022, Activision partnered with certain gaming platforms to offer 24-hour early access to Call of Duty: Vanguard for players who attended specific gaming events.
Tips for Maximizing Your Early Access Experience

Plan Ahead: Early access opportunities often require pre-ordering or signing up in advance. Make sure to check the official Call of Duty website regularly for updates.
Stay Connected: Follow Call of Duty on social media and join online forums to stay informed about early access opportunities.
Be Patient: Early access is a privilege, and it may come with limitations, such as restricted content or time frames. Enjoy the experience, but remember that the full game will be available soon.

By following these methods, you can join the ranks of players who get to experience Call of Duty before the official release date. Whether you pre-order a special edition, join the Insider Program, or participate in beta testing, there are plenty of ways to play COD early and get a head start on the action.