The Call of Duty: Vanguard beta launched on Thursday, opening up the game to a large number of players for the first time. You can gain early access to the open beta for Sept. 16-17 by getting a code from a content creator, or by preordering the game. The game will open up for all players to test from September 18-20th.

In addition to allowing players to check out Vanguard maps like Hotel Royal, Red Star, and Gavutu, the open beta is also testing Crossplay, so you will be able to play with your friends across systems. The beta will also include various modes like Team Deathmatch, Kill Confirmed, Domination, and Search and Destroy. 

The new beta introduced a new game mode called Patrol, which is an objective-based mode that is similar to Hardpoint. Unlike Hardpoint, however, the scoring zone will continuously move around the map, forcing a much more dynamic and constantly shifting battlefield.

To gain access to the "Open Beta" early, you can either redeem one of the codes that are being dropped by content creators and Call of Duty focused organizations on Twitter and various streams, or you can pre-purchase the title for $60 USD via Battle.net. The rest of us will have to wait until Saturday to experience the beta. 

The Vanguard Beta is set to run for only a few days, from Thursday, Sept. 16th through Monday, Sept. 20th.  There are some exclusive rewards for those who participate, including a free Weapon Blueprint that will be available in Vanguard and eventually Warzone as well when the game launches in November.