TL;DR (for the busy)
Open Beta (all platforms): unlocks October 5, 2025, with Early Access for pre-orders starting October 2. Exact global unlock times below.
Launch date: November 14, 2025 on PS5/PS4, Xbox Series X|S/Xbox One, and PC.
18 multiplayer maps at launch (16 Core 6v6 + 2 Skirmish 20v20).
Classic Prestige returns (with Level 1,000 grind for Prestige Master).
Zombies debuts “Ashes of the Damned,” billed as the biggest round-based map yet.
New toys & systems: Overclock system, Hybrid Combat Specialties, Wildcards, fresh scorestreaks (including the controversial Gravemaker).
Beta dates, times, and how to get in
When can you play?
Early Access (pre-orders): Thursday, Oct 2, 2025 at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET / 6 PM BST (regional times listed by GameSpot).
Open Beta (everyone): unlocks Sunday, Oct 5, 2025 at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET / 6 PM BST.
How long does it run?
Several outlets list the public window as Oct 5–8; others note an end on Oct 9. Plan for Oct 5–8 (official messaging), but you may see servers active into Oct 9 per regional schedules. We’ll update if Activision posts a definitive end time.
Platforms & access:
Beta is on PlayStation, Xbox (One/Series), and PC (Battle.net & Steam). Early Access requires a pre-order; Open Beta is free.
Pro tip: Pre-load details and regional availability vary by retailer/territory; check the official beta hub before download day.
Launch day content: maps, modes, and the vibe
18 multiplayer maps at launch
Activision confirmed 18 maps: 16 Core 6v6 plus 2 Skirmish (20v20). Expect a mix of tight, high-tempo arenas and broader layouts for tactical play.
Highlight: Japan-inspired locales showcased at TGS 2025—
Den: a traditional castle setting fused with near-future 2035 tech.
Toshin: neon Tokyo, with playful spaces like a cat café and karaoke room.
Modes & sandbox updates
The official multiplayer deep-dive outlines a suite of returning modes and new twists, with Overclock, Hybrid Combat Specialties, Wildcards, and an updated set of Perks/Field Upgrades shaping the current meta. If you love tinkering, BO7 looks especially build-friendly on day one.
Progression: Classic Prestige is back (again)
Treyarch is leaning into the nostalgia many of us wanted: traditional Prestige is returning in BO7, with ten prestige tiers and a chase to Level 1,000 Prestige Master for the ultimate badge flex. This follows community praise for Black Ops 6’s Prestige revival and stands in contrast to the seasonal reset model used in other CoDs. Translation: your long-term grind matters again.
What to expect during the beta: typically, a capped level and partial unlock set; progression may reset post-beta, but check the beta hub for any carry-over rewards.
Scorestreaks & the Gravemaker debate
There’s already heat around a new streak: Gravemaker—a sniper-style streak whose special optic can reveal enemies through walls and punch rounds through surfaces. The community’s split: some love the power fantasy; others argue it feels too “wallhack-ish,” especially at its reported 580-point threshold. Expect tuning chatter through beta.
Zombies: “Ashes of the Damned”
For the undead faithful, BO7 launches with “Ashes of the Damned,” described as the largest round-based Zombies map yet, featuring new enemies (Zursa, Ravager) and multi-zone exploration. If you’ve been waiting for a big, classic loop with new tech and set-pieces, keep your eyes on this one.
What’s actually new vs. “same but updated”?
New systems (Overclock, Hybrid Specialties): These look like the year’s backbone for playstyle identity—think faster ult-style moments and deeper buildcraft without overwhelming newcomers.
Map spread at launch (16/2): A robust slate compared to some earlier years—good news for variety across the first two seasons.
Classic Prestige: The long-term chase returns—great for grinders who hated losing momentum every season.
Thematic settings: 2035 tech-meets-tradition vibes (see Tokyo set pieces) give BO7 a distinct identity without going full sci-fi.
How to prep for the beta (quick tips)
Lock your platform party: With cross-gen and PC support, confirm where your squad is playing and set up voice/party settings beforehand.
Dial in your sensitivity: Start with last year’s sens and FOV, then tweak in a bot lobby or early matches; small changes pay huge dividends in TTK shooters.
Test two loadouts: One mobility-first (aggressive lanes) and one anchoring (power positions). Beta metas shift fast—be ready to swap.
Chase unlock thresholds early: If a streak or attachment looks strong, prioritize challenges and Weapon XP before lobbies adapt.
Expect tuning: Don’t tilt—beta is for balance passes. The Gravemaker debate alone guarantees changes.
Dates you should actually put on your calendar
Oct 2, 2025 — Early Access starts (10 AM PT / 1 PM ET / 6 PM BST).
Oct 5, 2025 — Open Beta unlock (same global times).
Oct 8–9, 2025 — Likely end (region/platform roll-offs vary).
Nov 14, 2025 — Full launch (PS5/PS4, Xbox Series X|S/Xbox One, PC).
Light Gameflip tie-in (skip if you just wanted the facts)
Getting ready for launch? You can top up with digital gift cards (PlayStation / Xbox / Battle.net / Steam) and grab deals on controllers, subs, and more on Gameflip. Save a few bucks now; treat yourself to a battle pass later.
FAQ
Is the BO7 beta free?
Yes—Open Beta is free. Early Access requires a pre-order.
Which maps are in the beta?
The pool rotates. Expect a sampler of 6v6 maps (Activision will confirm the playlist close to the date).
Does beta progress carry into launch?
Leveling typically resets; cosmetic rewards may carry. Watch the beta hub for what unlocks persist.
Will Prestige be available at launch or Season 1?
Classic Prestige is part of the launch-day progression plan, with the Level 1,000 long grind intact.
Final word
Black Ops 7 is shaping up as a content-rich launch with a strong map slate, a build-friendly sandbox, and progression that respects your time. The beta will set the tone—so get your crew ready, test a few loadouts, and give Treyarch the feedback they’re clearly building around.
We’ll update this guide as Activision posts final beta playlists and patch notes. See you on Oct 2/5.
