Image credit: EA DICE

Battlefield 6 is the latest entry in the legendary FPS franchise from Electronic Arts, that first stormed the scene back in 2002. Its full release is set for October 2025 — but if you’re itching to jump into the action sooner, here’s the good news: the Battlefield 6 beta pre-load begins August 4 at 3 pm UTC!

The open beta itself will go live just days later, giving you a chance to test the game months ahead of launch. Preloading early is a smart move — the sooner you start the download, the lower the risk of last-minute issues when servers go live.

Battlefield 6 Beta Download Time & File Size

Preloading opens simultaneously on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, and EA App) starting August 4, 2025, at 3 pm UTC — that’s 5 pm Central European Time or 11 pm in China.

Twitch Drops for Battlefield 6 – also you can earn early access to Open Beta

As for storage, we finally have an answer: make sure you have about 75 GB (editors note: for me on steam it was 38GB of space) of free storage space. This means it’s time for some digital spring, or more like SUMMER cleaning. PC players should also double-check that their platform client (Steam, Epic, or EA App) is fully updated — outdated launchers can cause issues during major rollouts. Console users should likewise ensure their system software is current. Also if you’re running with NVidia graphics, you’ll have to get at least 578 series drivers from NVidia App. 

Here are freebies you can acquire just by playing Battlefield 6 Open Beta

Remember: preloading doesn’t mean instant access. Everyone can install the game files, but your ability to join live servers depends on access level, version, and overall server load.

How to Preload the Battlefield 6 Beta (Step-by-Step)

Preloading isn’t rocket science, but a few tips can save you some frustration:

On Console (PS5 / Xbox Series X|S):

  1. Head to the store and search for “Battlefield 6 Open Beta”.
  2. You should see an option to “Install” or “Preload” — click it, and you’re set.

On PC (Steam, Epic, or EA App):

  1. Search for the same title. Occasionally, it will show up as a separate entry in your library.
  2. Make sure your EA account is linked to the platform you’re using — this often makes or breaks early access.

Running low on storage? Leave some buffer space. Some betas may download extra files after first launch. Stuck on “Waiting”? Try removing and re-adding the download. Restarting your client (Steam, EA App, etc.) can also do the trick.

Battlefield 6 Beta Schedule: Who Can Join and When?

There are three waves of testing — and whether you get early access or not depends on where and how you signed up:

  • August 7-8 — Early access via Battlefield Labs, EA Play Pro, Phantom Edition owners, or Twitch Drops
  • August 9-11 — Open beta — no codes needed, available to all
  • August 14-17 — Second open weekend — once again, free for everyone

EA’s guide how to get early access to Battlefield 6 Open Beta

So even if you miss the early wave, don’t worry — the open beta will be live for two weekends and completely free to play.

What’s In The Beta?

There’s a lot to look forward to. Developers promise the biggest Battlefield beta content drop ever. You’ll get:

  • Four maps — Siege of Cairo, Liberation Peak, Iberian Offensive, and a reimagined Operation Firestorm
  • Four game modes — Conquest, Breakthrough, Domination, Rush and Squad Deathmatch
  • Up to 64 players per server — expect pure chaos
  • A new movement and melee system, expanded destructibility, and the return of soldier classes — bringing back that classic Battlefield feel

Full “Roadmap” for Battlefield 6 Open Beta

Unfortunately, progress won’t carry over to the full game, but this is your chance to test if Battlefield 6 hits the right notes for you.

Share the Experience

Already finished your Battlefield 6 beta pre-load or even managed to hop into a match? Share your experience — whether on Steam, social media, or Discord (for example XYZ Network). Was the installation smooth? Did you make it onto the servers? What’s your first impression of the gameplay?

It’s also a good time to consider subscribing to EA Play Pro — it offers early access to major releases, plus exclusive cosmetics and in-game bonuses. To save money, keep an eye out for promo links and discounts — like those you might find on our marketplace.

What’s Next for Battlefield?

For many fans, this beta could be the turning point. After the lukewarm reception of Battlefield 2042, the devs are going back to basics: classic soldier classes, team-focused gameplay, and more realistic environmental destruction — all while continuing the live-service model.

Battlefield 6 aims to blend old-school appeal with modern design. And this beta? It’s your first hands-on chance to see if the series is truly back on track. Got the files ready? Then gear up and hit the battlefield. We’ll see you in the chaos!