Activision has confirmed that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4’s DMZ mode will enter Early Access on October 20, 2026, three days before the game’s official launch.
Players who pre-order or pre-purchase Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 will be able to experience the returning DMZ extraction mode ahead of the full game’s release on October 23, 2026.
The announcement also confirms that Campaign Early Access begins even earlier, on October 16.
Modern Warfare 4 Early Access Dates
Activision has outlined three important dates for players:
- October 16: Campaign Early Access.
- October 20: DMZ Early Access.
- October 23: Full game launch.
Unlike some early access promotions, DMZ Early Access will be available with any pre-ordered edition of Modern Warfare 4, regardless of platform.
DMZ Returns With Extraction-Based Gameplay
Originally introduced in 2022, DMZ is Call of Duty’s extraction shooter experience, combining PvE encounters with competition against other players.
The returning mode allows players to explore the map, fight AI enemies and rival Operators, collect valuable loot, craft equipment and complete objectives.
Successfully extracting with collected rewards remains the primary goal of each deployment.
Players can approach missions either solo or as part of a squad, offering different strategies for surviving encounters and securing valuable equipment.
Activision has also released a new DMZ Early Access gameplay trailer, providing another look at the returning mode ahead of launch.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 releases on October 23, 2026.
