How to Get Early Access to Upcoming Games: A Complete Guide

If you’re a gaming enthusiast, there’s nothing more exciting than getting your hands on a new game before its official release. Whether it’s a closed beta, early access launch, or a playtest, being among the first to experience a game can be thrilling. If you’re eager to play upcoming titles before the general public, this guide will show you the best ways to secure early access and become a beta tester.

Understanding Early Access and Beta Testing

Before start we should know the different types of early access:

Closed Beta – A limited-access testing phase where developers invite select players to test and provide feedback before the official launch.
Open Beta – A public testing phase where anyone can sign up and play before the full release.
Early Access – A pre-release version of a game (either paid or free) that lets players experience it while it’s still in development.
Alpha Testing – A very early stage of testing, typically limited to developers and select testers.

1. Join Official Developer Programs

Many game developers have official programs that allow players to test their games early. Here are some of the biggest ones:

EA Playtesting – Electronic Arts (EA) has a dedicated playtesting program where you can register to test upcoming games.
Ubisoft Insider Program – Offers opportunities to play Ubisoft games before release.
Microsoft Xbox Insider Program – Grants access to preview builds and beta tests for upcoming Xbox and Windows games.
Sony PlayStation Beta Testing – Lets players try upcoming PlayStation games and system updates.
Steam Playtest & Early Access – Steam offers Playtest registration for unreleased games and an Early Access section.

2. Sign Up for Beta Testing Platforms

There are several platforms that connect gamers with developers for beta testing:

BetaBound – A popular beta testing platform featuring various software and games.
PlaytestCloud – Focuses on mobile games, offering opportunities to test upcoming titles.
Game Tester – A community-based platform where users can apply for game testing roles.
Centercode – Used by many tech companies and gaming studios for product and game testing.

3. Follow Developers on Social Media

Many gaming companies announce beta testing opportunities on their social media pages. Follow them on:

Twitter (X)
Discord
Reddit
Facebook
Instagram

Joining game-specific Discord servers is also a great way to stay updated and engage with developers.

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4. Subscribe to Newsletters and Forums

Gaming companies often give exclusive beta access to their newsletter subscribers. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite publishers and participate in forums like:

Reddit (r/gaming, r/GameDeals, r/pcgaming, etc.)
NeoGAF
ResetEra
Official Game Forums

5. Support Crowdfunding & Founders’ Programs

Some games offer early access to those who support development through crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, IndieGoGo, or Patreon. Additionally, many multiplayer games have Founders’ Packs that include beta access.

6. Pre-Order or Buy Special Editions

Some game publishers grant early access to those who pre-order or purchase deluxe/collector’s editions. Before buying, check what’s included to see if early access is part of the package.

7. Attend Gaming Events & Expos

Gaming conventions like E3, Gamescom, PAX, and Tokyo Game Show often offer hands-on demos and beta testing opportunities. Some events also give out beta keys to attendees.

8. Check Gaming Marketplaces

Platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG frequently feature early access games. Keep an eye on these for upcoming opportunities:

Steam Early Access
Epic Games Playtests
GOG Early Access

9. Become a Content Creator or Influencer

Game developers often provide early access to streamers, YouTubers, and bloggers to help promote their games. If you create content on Twitch, YouTube, or a gaming blog, you can reach out to developers or sign up for programs like:

Keymailer
Lurkit
Press Engine

10. Watch for Giveaways & Contests

Many gaming websites, influencers, and publishers run giveaways for beta keys. Follow gaming news sites like:

IGN
GameSpot
PC Gamer
Kotaku

Also, keep an eye on influencers who frequently share beta key giveaways.

11. Improve Your Chances by Staying Active

Provide useful feedback when testing games.
Be active in game communities and forums.
Respect NDAs (Non-Disclosure Agreements) to avoid getting banned from future tests.

12. Reliable sources and their links

1. Official Developer Playtesting Programs:

EA Playtesting: Electronic Arts offers a playtesting program where players can register to test upcoming games and provide feedback.
ea.com
Ubisoft Playtest: Ubisoft provides opportunities for players to participate in playtests for their upcoming titles.
playtest.ubisoft.com
Xbox Insider Program: Microsoft’s program allows players to get early access to new games and features, and participate in playtests on Xbox consoles and Windows PCs.
support.xbox.com

2. Beta Testing Platforms:

Betabound: A platform that collects and organizes various beta testing opportunities across software and games.
betabound.com
PlaytestCloud: Specializes in mobile game testing, offering opportunities to test upcoming mobile titles.
playtestcloud.com
Centercode: Provides a user testing platform connecting testers with companies for product and game testing.
centercode.com

3. Crowdfunding Platforms:

Kickstarter: Many game developers use Kickstarter to fund their projects, often offering early access or beta participation to backers.
IndieGoGo: Similar to Kickstarter, IndieGoGo hosts various game projects that may provide early access opportunities to supporters.
Patreon: Some developers offer early builds or beta versions of their games to patrons who support them on Patreon.

4. Gaming News and Community Sites:

IGN: A leading gaming news site that often announces upcoming beta tests and early access opportunities.
GameSpot: Provides news, reviews, and announcements about upcoming games and beta testing opportunities.
PC Gamer: Covers PC gaming news, including information on early access games and beta tests.

By exploring these sources, you can stay informed about opportunities to access upcoming games before their official releases.

Final Thoughts

Getting early access to games is a fantastic way to experience new titles before they officially launch. By staying involved in gaming communities, signing up for official programs, and using social media effectively, you can significantly improve your chances of playing upcoming games before everyone else.

Have any tips or experiences with getting early access to games? Share them in the comments below!