How to Start Playing the Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Multiplayer and Zombies Beta

Mike Nelson, Xbox Wire Editor

After an exciting week of news and reveals from Call of Duty: Next, we’re capping it off with a Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Multiplayer and Zombies Beta! Over the next few days, you’ll have a chance to dive in and get hands-on with a handful of the new maps – as well as Zombies Survival. Read on for a full breakdown of the info you need to know to start playing today!

Beta Early Access – October 2 to 5

If you have pre-ordered Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 or you’re an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate member, you can jump into Early Access to the Open Beta starting Thursday, October 2 at 10am Pacific — you can find the Beta client here on the Microsoft Store. Also, if you’ve pre-ordered digitally, you’re automatically registered to participate in the Early Access period.

The Early Access will kick off with three maps and four modes playable during early access: The Forge, Cortex, Exposure, and Imprint. The available game modes will be Team Deathmatch, Domination, Hardpoint and Kill Confirmed. The brand-new game mode Overload and the classic mode Search & Destroy will also be added to the playlist with Overload being added on October 3 and Search & Destroy being added on October 4!

In Overload, teams will fight for control of the Overload Device, which they must pick up and carry into one of the enemy’s two control zones. The device’s position is shown via HUD and Tac-Map, and any Operator carrying it receives extra map intel.`

Open Beta – October 5 to 8

Once Open Beta kicks off on October 5, the doors will be open for players across all platforms to jump into the Black Ops 7 Beta. In addition to all the content available during Beta Early Access, Open Beta will unlock two new maps – Blackheart and Toshin.

Zombies Survival – October 3

For the first time ever, Zombies will be in a Call of Duty Beta! Zombies Survival, set on Vandorn Fam, will be available for a limited time starting in the Early Access to the Open Beta starting October 3. Survival is a focused, unfiltered Zombies experience with no quests or objectives — it’s just you and your squad surviving against the relentless undead for as long as you can. This is a bite-sized portion of what’s waiting for you in Ashes of the Damned, giving you a great opportunity to jump in and slay some zombies with no distractions.

Also, GobbleGums will be available to use during the Zombies Survival which these will be complimentary during the Beta. Be sure to read the in-depth GobbleGums guide for more details.

Check out the official Call of Duty Blog for a full breakdown on the maps and modes that will be available to play this weekend.

Don’t Forget Your Training

If you need a refresher on Multiplayer, make sure you check out the Training Course – you can find this alongside the other Beta modes. Here you’ll get acquainted with the updated Omnimovement system as well as other traversal evolutions that Black Ops 7 has in store. It’s recommended to start your Multiplayer journey here whether you’re a new or returning player.

Progression in the Black Ops 7 Beta

When you jump into your first game, you’ll find that there are a handful of weapons, Perks, Scorestreaks, and Equipment already unlocked and ready to use.In addition to that, you’ll have 30 levels of unlocks for you to progress through during the Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Beta. Once you hit Level 4, you’ll gain access to Custom Loadouts and Weapon and Gear customization. Each level will unlock additional options for your Loadout.

You can also achieve Beta rewards that will transfer over to your Black Ops 7 inventory at launch:

Level 2: “Beta Player” Animated Emblem
Level 6: “Gun Flex” Emote
Level 11: “Beta Neon” Sticker
Level 15: “Beta Beasts” Weapon Charm
Level 20: “Beta Maverick” Wei Lin Operator Skin
Level 20: “Beta Leader” Falkner Operator Skiin
Level 23: “Beta Survivor” Loading Screen
Level 27: “Beta Conqueror” Calling Card
Level 30: “Beta Legend” Weapon Blueprint – M15 Mod 0

Pre-order Call of Duty Black Ops 7 Today

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 launches November 14, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox on PC, and Cloud – with support for Xbox Play Anywhere and day one with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass – as well as PlayStation 4 & 5, Battle.net, and Steam. Pre-order any digital edition or subscribe to select Game Pass plans and receive Early Access to the Open Beta (Terms), as well as the Reznov Challenge Pack and Guild Override Weapon Camo (Terms). Learn more here.

Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7 – Open Beta

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆
182

★★★★★

Get it now

PC Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass

Pre-order any digital edition or subscribe to select Game Pass plans* and get Early Access to the Open Beta**.

– Early Access is October 2nd – October 5th
– Open Beta access is available for all players from October 5th – October 8th

Experience your first taste of the cutting-edge combat in Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7 with the Black Ops 7 Beta.

– Map Variety: Jump into brand-new 6v6 Multiplayer maps coming at launch on November 14th, all combining a new level of visual fidelity along with refined Multiplayer design for the most engaging Black Ops MP ever.

– Near-Future Weaponry: Set in 2035, Multiplayer delivers an arsenal of new, near-future weaponry and gear, including a selection of Black Ops 2 inspirations.

– Overclocked Gear: Scorestreaks, Field Upgrades and Equipment can be upgraded with the new Overclock system, growing more versatile the more you use them. Every match becomes a step toward unlocking their full potential.

– Next-level Omnimovement: including Wall Jumps and a complete refinement of core movement, open-up creative possibilities and fresh dynamics to gameplay.

Earn in-game rewards including an Operator skin, weapon blueprint and additional cosmetic items for playing the Beta, which will be immediately available in the Beta once unlocked and playable in Black Ops 7 once the full game launches.

TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot required for PC, other security measures may be enforced. Learn more at https://support.activision.com/tpm.

*Requires active subscription to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass PC, or Game Pass Console.

**Actual launch date(s), time(s), and platform availability of Beta subject to change. See www.callofduty.com/beta for more details. Minimum Open Beta duration is 2 days. Limited time only. Internet connection required. Game Pass Core subscription may be required for Beta.

Content, features, services, online play, and support not available in all regions, and may vary, change, or terminate.

Requires an Activision account and acceptance of the Activision Software License and Services Agreement. A mobile phone number linked to your Activision account may be required to play Black Ops 7.

For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com.

Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7 – Vault Edition

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$99.99

Pre-order

Pre-order any digital edition and receive:

– Early Access to the Open Beta*
— Early Access starts on October 2
— Open Beta access (available for all players) starts on October 5
– Items for immediate use in Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty®: Warzone**:
— Reznov Challenge Pack – unlock the SOG Reznov Operator Skin. Plus, get access to unlock the Stalingrad Reznov and Memory Reznov Operator Skins
— Guild Override Weapon Camo – unlock the Guild Override dynamic Weapon Camo

The Vault Edition includes:

– Cross-Gen Bundle of Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7
— Includes Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Xbox PC versions of the game
– BlackCell (1 Season)***
— Includes: Battle Pass, 20 Tier Skips, 1,100 CP and more
– Operator Collection
— 4 Operator Skins: Harper, Karma, T.E.D.D. and Reaper EWR-3
– Mastercraft Collection
— 5 Mastercraft Weapons
– Ultra GobbleGum Pack for Zombies
— 8 GobbleGums of Ultra rarity for Black Ops 7
– Permanent Unlock Token for Black Ops 7 (available at launch)

In Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7, Treyarch and Raven Software are bringing players the most mind-bending Black Ops ever.

The year is 2035 and the world is on the brink of chaos, ravaged by violent conflict and psychological warfare. David Mason leads an elite team on a covert mission to the sprawling city of Avalon. While there, they discover a sophisticated plot that won’t just plunge the world into chaos, it will pull them into their own haunting pasts.

Squad up or go solo in an innovative Co-Op Campaign that redefines the Black Ops experience.

Multiplayer explodes out of the gate with 16 electrifying 6v6 maps and two 20v20 maps at launch. Master a cutting-edge arsenal and outmaneuver your enemies with an evolved Omnimovement system.

In Treyarch’s legendary Round-Based Zombies mode, the nightmare begins where reality ends. Trapped in the heart of the Dark Aether, the crew is thrust into a vast, ever-shifting hellscape.

Game requires a Game Pass Core subscription (sold separately).

TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot required for PC, other security measures may be enforced. Learn more at https://support.activision.com/tpm.

*Actual launch date(s), time(s), and platform availability of Beta subject to change. See www.callofduty.com/beta for more details. Minimum Open Beta duration is 2 days. Limited time only. Internet connection required. Game Pass Core subscription may be required for Beta.

**Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 or Call of Duty®: Warzone on Xbox Series X|S / Xbox One / Xbox PC required to redeem. Sold / downloaded separately. Must be redeemed by November 14th, 2026.

***BlackCell, Battle Pass, Call of Duty® Points and Tier Skips will be accessible in Black Ops 7 upon availability of the Season 1 Battle Pass in-game. Redemption applies to one Season of the Black Ops 7 Battle Pass only.

Content, features, services, online play, and support not available in all regions, and may vary, change, or terminate.

Requires an Activision account and acceptance of the Activision Software License and Services Agreement. A mobile phone number linked to your Activision account may be required to play Black Ops 7.

Additional storage space may be required for mandatory game updates.

For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com.

Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7 – Vault Edition Upgrade

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆
65

★★★★★

$30

Get it now

Upgrade to the Vault Edition and receive the following bonus content*:

– BlackCell (1 Season)**
— Includes: Battle Pass, 20 Tier Skips, 1,100 CP and more
– Operator Collection
— 4 Operator Skins: Harper, Karma, T.E.D.D. and Reaper EWR-3
– Mastercraft Collection
— 5 Mastercraft Weapons
– Ultra GobbleGum Pack for Zombies
— 8 GobbleGums of Ultra rarity for Black Ops 7
– Permanent Unlock Token for Black Ops 7 (available at launch)

*Requires existing ownership of the digital version of the Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7 – Cross-Gen Bundle on Xbox Series X|S / Xbox One / Xbox PC (sold separately), or active subscription to select Game Pass plans (Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass PC, or Game Pass Console).

**BlackCell, Battle Pass, Call of Duty® Points and Tier Skips will be accessible in Black Ops 7 upon availability of the Season 1 Battle Pass in-game. Redemption applies to one Season of the Black Ops 7 Battle Pass only.

For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com.

Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7 – Cross-Gen Bundle

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$69.99

Pre-order

Pre-order any digital edition or subscribe to select Game Pass plans* and receive:

– Early Access to the Open Beta**
— Early Access starts on October 2
— Open Beta access (available for all players) starts on October 5
– Items for immediate use in Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty®: Warzone***:
— Reznov Challenge Pack – unlock the SOG Reznov Operator Skin. Plus, get access to unlock the Stalingrad Reznov and Memory Reznov Operator Skins
— Guild Override Weapon Camo – unlock the Guild Override dynamic Weapon Camo

Includes:

– Cross-Gen Bundle of Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7
— Includes Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Xbox PC versions of the game

In Call of Duty®: Black Ops 7, Treyarch and Raven Software are bringing players the most mind-bending Black Ops ever.

The year is 2035 and the world is on the brink of chaos, ravaged by violent conflict and psychological warfare. David Mason leads an elite JSOC team on a covert mission to the sprawling Mediterranean city of Avalon. While there, they discover a sophisticated plot that won’t just plunge the world into chaos, it will pull them into their own haunting pasts.

Squad up or go solo in an innovative Co-Op Campaign that redefines the Black Ops experience. Take on high-stakes challenges across a wide spectrum of environments, from the neon-lit rooftops of Japan to the Mediterranean coast, and even into the deepest corners of the human psyche.

Multiplayer explodes out of the gate with 16 electrifying 6v6 maps and two 20v20 maps at launch. From futuristic Tokyo vistas to the frozen, unforgiving wilds of Alaska, every environment is brimming with danger and opportunity. Master a cutting-edge arsenal and outmaneuver your enemies with an evolved Omnimovement system.

In Treyarch’s legendary Round-Based Zombies mode, the nightmare begins where reality ends. Trapped in the heart of the Dark Aether, the crew is thrust into a vast, ever-shifting hellscape. This isn’t just survival. It’s a descent into madness.

Game requires a Game Pass Core subscription (sold separately).

TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot required for PC, other security measures may be enforced. Learn more at https://support.activision.com/tpm.

*Requires active subscription to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass PC, or Game Pass Console. Subscribers must login to Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 or Call of Duty®: Warzone on Xbox Series X|S / Xbox One / Xbox PC by November 14, 2025 to redeem the Reznov Challenge Pack.

***Call of Duty®: Black Ops 6 or Call of Duty®: Warzone on Xbox Series X|S / Xbox One / Xbox PC required to redeem. Sold / downloaded separately. Must be redeemed by November 14th, 2026.

Content, features, services, online play, and support not available in all regions, and may vary, change, or terminate.

Requires an Activision account and acceptance of the Activision Software License and Services Agreement. A mobile phone number linked to your Activision account may be required to play Black Ops 7.

Additional storage space may be required for mandatory game updates.

For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com.

The post How to Start Playing the Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Multiplayer and Zombies Beta appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Monster Hunter Stories: How This Spin-off Series Translates the Franchise’s Strengths

Category: Games

Monster Hunter Stories: How This Spin-off Series Translates the Franchise’s Strengths

When ‘Capcom Presents’ flashed across the screen during watching last week’s Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025 Broadcast, my pulse quickened as I prepared for something familiar from one of my favorite publishers – only to be surprised by a world I’ve yet to explore: Monster Hunter Stories.

Even if you’ve sunk dozens of hours into Monster Hunter World and the more recent Wilds as I have, you may find yourself in a similar situation. But there’s never been a better time to get acquainted, as Monster Hunter Stories, a beloved spin-off series of the legendary Monster Hunter franchise, makes its Xbox debut next month, with the first two games arriving on November 14.

The day after that announcement, at Tokyo Game Show, I found myself with a controller in hand to get acquainted with the next entry in the series, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, itself coming to Xbox on March 13, 2026. After an hour of exploring this new world, my ignorance has been supplanted by anticipation. If you’re new to this series – or only know the mainline games – here’s what makes Stories unique:

A Sunnier Take on Monster Hunter

The first thing players are you’ll likely to notice is how different Monster Hunter Stories games look; the cel-shaded art style is vibrant and inviting—a sharp contrast to the gritty realism of the mainline games. Infused with rich, bright colors across its sunny vistas, verdant fields, misty mountains, Monster Hunter Stories presents a world you want to get lost in.

Monster Hunting Action, One Turn At a Time

Beyond its outer appearance, you’ll feel how different Stories is from mainline Monster Hunter when you first get into combat. As you approach your first monster, rather than attacking outright, you’re thrown into a turn-based RPG battle. After being introduced to an initially simple rock/paper/scissors mechanic, Monster Hunter Stories quickly layers on a lot more.

While ‘turn based’ may conjure thoughts of a deliberate, repetitive experience – there is a lot going on here: balancing attacks and skills, attack types and weaknesses. And you’re not just controlling the human rangers; your monster companions – called “Monsties” – can be called into battle, each with unique abilities. Want to switch tactics mid-battle? Swap Monsties on the fly or mount up for a powerful special attack.

You’ll Ride a Lot More than Seikrets

Speaking of mounts, the Monstie you’re riding offers up different mobility options throughout the open world. The Monster Hunter Stories 3 demo started me out with a Rathalos called, appropriately enough, Ratha – though I was able to easily switch via a radial menu to a lizard-wolf type of monster you might recognise from Monster Hunter World, called Tobi-Kadachi. Tobi could go where Ratha can’t, bounding straight up a vertical rock formation. After looking around and marking points of interest, I realized Tobi had another trick up its fur: it was less wolf and more flying squirrel, allowing me to glide straight to a chest I had spotted and marked. Very fun.

Ratha also has a trick: when mounting it, pressing RT brings up an aiming reticle, and releasing allows it to do what wyverns do best: spit up explosive fire, assisting with breaking things, revealing resources, or initiating battle… sometimes even ending it before it starts. Again, very fun.

It’s Still Monster Hunter

Despite Monster Hunter Stories’ RPG trappings, in just about every element, its Monster Hunter DNA shines through. From hunting down monster materials, to forging new equipment, to collecting bugs, fruits, and metals as you explore the world, to the chatty Felynes, you’ll never forget you’re in a Monster Hunter world, even while inhabiting a different part of it.

Most “Monster Hunter” of all are the tough-as-leather beasts that survive even the strongest attacks you can dish out, meaning that combat isn’t just a test of skill, but of attrition. After taking down a pair of bosses with unique, stylish finishers, my demo came to a close. My takeaway: even if you’ve spent dozens of hours in Monster Hunter World or Wilds, Stories will surprise you.

Monster Hunter Stories 1 and 2 arrive on Xbox consoles on November 14 of this year, with the latest entry in the series, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection following on March 13, 2026.

Monster Hunter Stories Collection

CAPCOM Co., Ltd.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$59.99

$35.99

Pre-order

Limited Bonus

Monster Hunter Stories
– Purchase early to get Navirou’s “King” and “Queen” Outfits.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
– Purchase early to get Ena’s “Kamura Maiden Outfit.”

*Bonus content is available to customers who pre-order the game by 23:59 on 11.13.2025.
*This content may be made available separately at a later date.
*Outfits for Ena and Navirou are purely cosmetic and only change the characters’ appearance.

Both Monster Hunter Stories games included in one collection!

Monster Hunter Stories is an RPG series that takes the world of Monster Hunter and expands upon it in new and exciting ways! No longer are you hunting monsters, but raising them! Featuring heroes known as Monster Riders, you will live alongside monsters and form lifelong bonds with them.

Contents:
– Monster Hunter Stories
– Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin (Standard Edition)

Game Introduction:
The first game tells the story of a Rider who confronts a calamity known as the Black Blight that has overtaken the world, all while learning to live together with Hunters. The second game is set four years later, when a new hero unravels the epic story surrounding a legendary Rathalos, one foretold to bring ruin to the world.

Game Features:
■ A turn-based RPG set in the world of Monster Hunter! Monster Hunter Stories features a strategic battle system which is easy to get the hang of, even for those who struggle with action games. Use Power, Speed, and Technical attacks to guess and overcome your opponent’s attack patterns to inflict heavy damage and win head-to-head battles! Build up your Kinship Gauge to use skills or try your Monsties’ unique Kinship Skills!
■ Turn popular monsters from the series into your Monsties! Explore the field using Monstie abilities, hatch eggs that you find along the way, and turn various monsters into Monsties! This game features many popular monsters from the Monster Hunter series, including Zinogre, Nargacuga, and Lagiacrus. Also featured is the Rite of Channeling, a ritual that awakens dormant abilities in your Monsties, allowing you to raise original Monsties and take on powerful enemies!
■ Online features that allow you to create a powerful party with the Monsties you have raised and enjoy battles with other players!

*The items in this set can be purchased individually. Please be careful not to purchase the same item twice.

MONSTER HUNTER STORIES 3: TWISTED REFLECTION

CAPCOM Co., Ltd.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Twin Rathalos, born in a twist of fate.

Embark on a new adventure in the third installment of the turn-based RPG series set in the world of Monster Hunter! Become a Rider in the Monster Hunter Stories series as you hatch and build kinship with friendly monsters known as Monsties, then explore and battle alongside them in a world full of potential!

Set two centuries after a conflict that divided neighboring kingdoms, the drums of war are reignited as twin Rathalos—long thought extinct—hatch from a single egg: an omen of destruction.

Two kingdoms, two Riders, and two Rathalos; their fates now intertwined. As calamity encroaches, seek hope beyond the border and into forbidden lands.

©CAPCOM
MONSTER HUNTER STORIES is a trademark and/or registered trademark of CAPCOM CO., LTD. and/or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries.

Monster Hunter Stories

CAPCOM Co., Ltd.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$29.99

$19.49

Pre-order

Limited Bonus
Pre-order to get Navirou’s “King” and “Queen” Outfits!

*Bonus content is available to customers who pre-order the game by 23:59 on 11.13.2025.
*This content may be made available separately at a later date.
*These outfits are purely cosmetic and only change Navirou’s appearance.

Monster Hunter Stories is an RPG that takes the world of Monster Hunter and expands upon it in new and exciting ways! No longer are you hunting monsters, but raising them! In this deep story featuring heroes known as Monster Riders, you will live alongside monsters and form lifelong bonds with them. The first installment of the Monster Hunter Stories series returns, fully voiced in Japanese and English, with additional features such as a new museum mode where you can listen to music and view concept art, allowing you to dive even deeper into the world of Monster Hunter Stories.

Story:
As the hero of the story, you were born in a village of Riders who raise monsters for a living. You’ll overcome trials and tribulations as you grow as a Rider, and leave your village to embark on an adventure. Your destination: the world of Hunters, who make their living by hunting monsters. Although their lifestyles are vastly different, you must learn to live and work together with Hunters, and in turn, bring the world of Hunters and Riders ever closer.

Things take a dark turn as a calamity known as the Black Blight appears, threatening the entire world and upending peaceful lives that were taken for granted… Both Riders and Hunters alike will be put to the test in order to challenge this threat.

The keys to saving the world are the Kinship Stone and its hidden power, along with the truth of the “Legend of Redan,” which describes the long-kept secret of the Riders’ origins!

Game Features:
■ A turn-based RPG set in the world of Monster Hunter! Monster Hunter Stories features a strategic battle system which is easy to get the hang of, even for those who struggle with action games. Use Power, Speed, and Technical attacks to guess and overcome your opponent’s attack patterns to inflict heavy damage and win head-to-head battles! Build up your Kinship Gauge to use skills or try your Monsties’ unique Kinship Skills!
■ Turn popular monsters from the series into your Monsties! Explore the field using Monstie abilities, hatch eggs that you find along the way, and turn various monsters into Monsties! This game features many popular monsters from the Monster Hunter series, including Zinogre, Nargacuga, and Lagiacrus. Also featured is the Rite of Channeling, a ritual which awakens dormant abilities in your Monsties, allowing you to raise original Monsties and take on powerful enemies!
■ Online features that allow you to create a powerful party with the Monsties you have raised and enjoy battles with other players!
■ All updates are included! You will find all the monsters added in updates to the original game, such as Kushala Daora, Teostra, and Rajang, as well as expanded endgame content and additional character editing parts, making this the complete package!

*There are other bundles that include this product. Please be careful of duplicate purchases.

©CAPCOM
MONSTER HUNTER STORIES is a trademark and/or registered trademark of CAPCOM CO., LTD. and/or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

CAPCOM Co., Ltd.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$39.99

$29.99

Pre-order

Limited Bonus
Purchase by 23:59 on 11.13.2025 to receive the Kamura Maiden Outfit for Ena. This outfit lets you dress Ena as a hub maiden from Kamura village, as featured in Monster Hunter Rise!
*May become available at a later date.
*Changes Ena’s appearance only.
*Monster Hunter Rise rated TEEN

A new adventure awaits you in this second installment of the turn-based RPG series set in the world of Monster Hunter! Become a Rider and form bonds with friendly monsters known as Monsties to fight alongside them as you take part in an epic story.

You play as the grandchild of Red, a legendary Rider. The story begins with a fateful encounter with Ena, a Wyverian girl who has been entrusted with an egg with the potential to hatch into a legendary Rathalos which could wreak havoc if awakened to its destructive power.

Embark on a journey which will test the bonds of friendship in a changing world, and discover the truth behind the legends of old.

©CAPCOM
MONSTER HUNTER STORIES is a trademark and/or registered trademark of CAPCOM CO., LTD. and/or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries.

*There are other bundles that include this product. Please be careful of duplicate purchases.

The post Monster Hunter Stories: How This Spin-off Series Translates the Franchise’s Strengths appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Updates to Xbox Game Pass: Introducing Essential, Premium, and Ultimate Plans

Category: Xbox Game Pass

October 1, 2025

Updates to Xbox Game Pass: Introducing Essential, Premium, and Ultimate Plans

Team Xbox

Our goal with Game Pass has been clear: deliver unmatched value, benefits, and a deep library of games for our players. Since launching in 2017, we’ve steadily grown our subscriber and creator satisfaction – and today, creator participation and player engagement in Game Pass are at an all-time high. But we have the opportunity for Game Pass to help more players find the creators and games they love.

We know not everyone wants the same thing in their Xbox experience, so we’re evolving Game Pass to offer more flexibility, choice, and value to all players, whether you love day one releases, discovering hidden gems, or playing across multiple devices and screens and across Xbox consoles, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud.

Starting today, we’re introducing three upgraded Game Pass plans based on how players play: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. Each includes expanded game libraries, including PC titles, unlimited cloud gaming, in-game benefits (including Riot Games titles), and a revamped Rewards with Xbox experience. Today’s Game Pass Core subscribers will automatically move to Essential, Standard subscribers will transition to Premium, and Ultimate subscribers will remain in the Ultimate plan.

It’s all a part of our commitment to meet players where they are, so you can choose what works best for you, no matter how or where you love to play.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Just Got Its Biggest Upgrade Yet

Ultimate has been upgraded for players who want the best of everything. We’re rolling out our most expansive upgrade yet, including more day one games than ever before, Fortnite Crew & Ubisoft+ Classics for the first time ever, enhanced Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming quality up to 1440p, Rewards with Xbox, and more. Now players can have it all.

Ultimate subscribers now get access to over 75 day one releases a year. That includes some of the most anticipated upcoming games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, High on Life 2, Keeper, Ninja Gaiden 4, and The Outer Worlds 2. These join a growing library of more than 400 games playable on Xbox consoles, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud on supported devices, with more than 45 new games added today. Think of hits like Blue Prince, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Hollow Knight: Silksong, plus exclusive benefits like access to EA Play.

We’re also welcoming major additions to the Ultimate experience. Starting November 18, Fortnite Crew – an $11.99/month value – will be included in Ultimate, with access to the Fortnite Battle Pass, 1,000 V-Bucks each month, and more. This is just the beginning of Xbox and Epic’s work together toward an open gaming ecosystem where friends can play and create together, anywhere, across devices. And today, Ubisoft+ Classics (~$15.98/month) joins Ultimate, offering access to a curated selection of Ubisoft games playable on console, PC, and cloud, like Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, and more.

Cloud gaming is also getting a major boost. Ultimate subscribers exclusively enjoy our best quality streaming and shortest wait times, so it’s easier than ever to jump into your favorite games. Xbox Cloud Gaming has also officially exited “Beta,” as part of our commitment to make gameplay smoother and more responsive. And we’ll keep expanding the Stream your own game collection for all subscribers. Keep an eye on Xbox.com/Play for the latest list of cloud playable games.

Ultimate subscribers can now earn up to $100 per year (100k points globally) in the Store just by playing games. With our upgraded Rewards program, players can get up to 30% value on select Game Pass games, with 4x points on purchases of games and add-ons, 10% back in points on select Game Pass library titles and add-ons, and up to 20% off select Game Pass games.

Xbox Game Pass Premium – More Games, More Flexibility

Premium has been upgraded to offer even more flexibility and value for those who want to play on their own terms at exceptional value. Premium provides access to a broader library of great games and extends the Xbox gaming experience across console, PC, and cloud.

We’re now giving Premium subscribers more games than ever before, from gaming’s biggest hits to hidden gems, now with access to 200+ games on Xbox console, PC, and supported devices, all still at $14.99. This library, with more than 40 new games available today, is also now playable on PC, including timeless hits like Minecraft, Forza Horizon 5, and Grand Theft Auto V. Plus, Premium subscribers get newly added fan-favorites like Diablo IV and Hogwarts Legacy starting today, and new Xbox-published games within a year of their launch (excludes Call of Duty titles).

Cloud gaming is also expanding in Premium. Subscribers now enjoy unlimited cloud gaming, including select games you own, and newly added in-game benefits in some of the biggest games like League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege X, instantly unlocking cosmetics, characters, and more to enhance your gameplay.

Premium also brings new value through Rewards with Xbox. Premium subscribers can also get up to $50 per year (50k points globally) in the Store just by playing games, earning 2x points on purchases of games and add-ons, plus 5% back in points on select Game Pass library titles and add-ons.

Xbox Game Pass Essential: A Great Way to Get Started

Essential is for players who want the essence of everything Xbox. With access to games across console, PC, and cloud, Essential makes it easy to jump in and start playing, whether you’re diving into solo adventures or teaming up with friends.

Our revamped Essential plan now includes unlimited cloud gaming, online multiplayer, in-game benefits, and Rewards with Xbox, plus a curated catalog of 50+ games playable on both console and PC.

The Essential library is now fully playable on PC, featuring standout titles like Hades, Cities: Skylines – Remastered, Stardew Valley, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide. You also get unlimited cloud gaming, allowing you to play games, including select games you own, on the devices you choose — giving you more freedom to play your way.

Subscribers also get access to in-game benefits in some of the biggest games like League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Overwatch 2.

And with our Rewards with Xbox program, Essential members can earn up to $25 per year (25k points globally) in the Store just by playing. You’ll also get points on purchases of games and add-ons.

Getting Started with the New Xbox Game Pass Plans

As we continue to evolve Xbox Game Pass, we’re focused on delivering more value, more benefits, and more great games across every plan. Whether you play on console, PC, cloud – or all three – there’s a Game Pass option designed to fit your playstyle.

With the latest upgrades, Ultimate is now priced at $29.99/month, reflecting the expanded catalog, new partner benefits, and upgraded cloud gaming experience. Standard subscribers will be upgraded to Premium remaining at $14.99/month, offering exceptional value for players who want flexibility and access to new Xbox-published titles within a year of launch. Core subscribers will be upgraded to Essential remaining at $9.99/month, providing a curated library, online multiplayer, and cloud gaming for those who want to jump in and start playing.

We regularly evaluate exchange rates and market conditions, so pricing may vary by region. For the most up-to-date information on plan features and pricing in your area, visit the plan picker on Xbox.com.

To learn more about each plan and find the one that’s right for you, head to the Xbox Game Pass site and our Xbox social channels for more details.

More Games Join Xbox Game Pass Today

We continue to add more games to Xbox Game Pass. Check out the latest games available starting today below, along with in-game benefits available across each plan. As a reminder, game titles, features, and availability vary over time, by region, Game Pass plan, and platform. Learn more about supported regions here.

Ultimate – Available Today

Hogwarts Legacy (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed II (PC)
Assassin’s Creed III Remastered (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag: Freedom Cry (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: China (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: India (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: Russia (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Liberation HD (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Revelations (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Rogue Remastered (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed The Ezio Collection (Cloud and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Unity (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Child of Light (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Far Cry 3 (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Far Cry Primal (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Hungry Shark World (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Monopoly Madness (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Monopoly 2024 (Cloud, PC, and Console)
OddBallers (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Prince of Persia The Lost Crown (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Rabbids Invasion: The Interactive TV Show (Cloud and Console)
Rabbids: Party of Legends (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Rayman Legends (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Risk Urban Assault (Cloud and Console)
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Skull and Bones (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
South Park: The Stick of Truth (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Starlink: Battle for Atlas (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Steep (Cloud, PC, and Console)
The Crew 2 (Cloud, PC, and Console)
The Settlers: New Allies (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Extraction (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Tom Clancy’s The Division (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Trackmania Turbo (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Transference (Cloud and Console)
Trials Fusion (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Trials of the Blood Dragon (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Trials Rising (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Uno (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Valiant Hearts: The Great War (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Watch_Dogs (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Wheel of Fortune (Cloud and Console)
Zombi (Cloud, PC, and Console)

Premium – Available Today (also in Ultimate)

9 Kings (Game Preview) (PC)
Abiotic Factor (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Against the Storm (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Age of Empires: Definitive Edition (PC)
Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition (PC)
Age of Mythology: Retold (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Ara: History Untold (PC)
Arx Fatalis (PC)
Back to the Dawn (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Battletech (PC)
Blacksmith Master (Game Preview) (PC)
Cataclismo (PC)
Cities: Skylines II (PC)
Crime Scene Cleaner (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Diablo (PC)
Diablo IV (PC and Console)
An Elder Scrolls Legends: Battlespire (PC)
The Elder Scrolls Adventures: Redguard (PC)
Fallout (PC)
Fallout 2 (PC)
Fallout: Tactics (PC)
Football Manager 2024 (PC)
Frostpunk 2 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Halo: Spartan Strike (PC)
Hogwarts Legacy (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Manor Lords (Game Preview) (PC)
Minami Lane (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Minecraft: Java Edition (PC)
Mullet Madjack (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
My Friendly Neighborhood (Cloud, PC, and Console)
One Lonely Outpost (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Quake 4 (PC)
Quake III Arena (PC)
Return to Castle Wolfenstein (PC)
Rise of Nations: Extended Edition (PC)
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Sworn (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Terra Invicta (Game Preview) (PC)
Volcano Princess (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Warcraft I: Remastered (PC)
Warcraft II: Remastered (PC)
Warcraft III: Reforged (PC)
Wolfenstein 3D (PC)

Essential – Available Today (also in Ultimate and Premium)

Cities: Skylines Remastered (Cloud and Xbox Series X|S)
Disney Dreamlight Valley (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Hades (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Warhammer 40,000 Darktide (Cloud, PC, and Console)

More Rewards with Game Pass

The post Updates to Xbox Game Pass: Introducing Essential, Premium, and Ultimate Plans appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Call of Duty Next 2025 Recap – The Latest News on Multiplayer, Zombies, Call of Duty: Warzone, and More

Category: Games

September 30, 2025

Call of Duty Next 2025 Recap – The Latest News on Multiplayer, Zombies, Call of Duty: Warzone, and More

Mike Nelson, Xbox Wire Editor

Call of Duty: Next is the annual event that brings creators and developers together to celebrate one of the most iconic franchises in gaming. This year, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 was front and center ahead of its launch on November 14, 2025, with members of Treyarch, Raven Software, High Moon Studios and the Beenox development team on hand to talk through all things Multiplayer, Zombies, Call of Duty: Warzone, as well as Call of Duty: Mobile. We also got fresh details on this weekend’s upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Beta! Read on for a full recap from today’s event.

It’s a Multiplayer Overload

Black Ops 7 will feature a staggering 18 maps at launch and today we got a deeper look at a handful of them with Blackheart, Cortex, Exposure, The Forge, Imprint, and Toshin – all of these will be available to play in the upcoming Beta.

As members of the Multiplayer development team from Treyarch explained, one of the key elements they’re focused on this year is adding innovative features to the Multiplayer experience, so it feels great for a wide range of players. Part of that feeds into some of the new biomes, which include covert Guild facilities in Japan, David Mason’s childhood cabin in the Alaskan wilderness, and a high-tech solar array in the Australian Outback.

Alongside existing modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Hardpoint, we also got our first look at the new Overload game mode (part of the upcoming Beta and available at launch).

Here, teams will fight for control of the Overload Device, which they must pick up and carry into one of the enemy’s two control zones. The device’s position is shown via HUD and Tac-Map, and any Operator carrying it receives extra map intel. The device changes hands throughout the match in a great tug of war, rewarding the team who can get the item and protect their carrier at all costs on their way to overload the enemy and win the match.

We also learned that Omnimovement – the freeform movement system introduced in Black Ops 6 – will be further refined, keeping the action feeling fresh and fluid, while introducing a new wall jump ability. You will now be able to propel over gaps, reach higher surfaces (you can wall jump up to three times in a row), and some maps will even feature steep drops where you’ll need to wall jump to make it to safety.

Treyarch also detailed some other new features coming to Black Ops 7, like the Overclock System, which will bring further customization options to your Equipment, Field Upgrades, and Scorestreaks. You can unlock these abilities through repeated use and then pick the bonus that feeds best into your style of play. Also, for the first time, players will be able to share Weapon Builds! Each build will generate a code that you can then share with your friends and gaming community.

To get a full breakdown on all the Multiplayer news coming out of Call of Duty: Next, be sure to check out the official Call of Duty Blog here.

Zombies Goes Back to the Future

Zombies is getting the band back together! After Weaver, Grey, Carver, and Maya fight for their lives, they’ve been thrust into the Dark Aether where they meet up with some faces long-time fans may remember: Dempsey, Nikolai, Takeo, and Richtofen (learn more about the crew here). Now with all 8 heroes ready, we can experience one of the biggest updates yet to Call of Duty: Zombies.

Ashes of the Damned is set up to be the biggest round-based Zombies map in Black Ops history, featuring six unique regions in Janus Towers Plaza, Vandorn Farm, Blackwater Lake, Ashwood, Exit 115, and Zarya Cosmodrome. Here you’ll explore more about the inner workings of the Dark Aether, a purgatory-like location that comprises scattered time periods and dimensions.

We also got a look at some of the new features, like the new Wonder Vehicle, Ol’ Tessie. It’s a rusted pick-up truck that serves as the crew’s method of transportation through the malevolent fog coating the Dark Aether. It’ll be up to you to keep it running by collecting repair modules and upgrades, like mounting the DG-2 turret and with the assistance of T.E.D.D. (a robot bus driver introduced in Call of Duty: Black Ops II). Other new features include a Fireworks ammo mod (bullets have chance to shoot fireworks at enemies); Wisp Tea (summons an ethereal companion); and a new Wonder Weapon, the Necrofluid Gauntlet, an ancient gauntlet that can shoot and skewer targets at range.

Learn more about Zombies, including its new modes like Cursed, here on the official Call of Duty Blog.

Prepare to Deploy to New Call of Duty: Warzone POIs

For Call of Duty: Warzone, we got a fresh look at the new Haven’s Hollow Resurgence map, which is a small riverside town, complimented with an antique Main Street. Players will be battling through a rural setting that takes you from the riverfront to the foothills. In addition to the new Resurgence map, we were also treated to a preview of two POIs arriving in Verdansk : all-new Signal Station and remastered Factory.

The developers also walked through some of the upcoming gameplay changes, like no default Tac Sprint but all Operators’ baseline movement speed will be increased. , t In addition, players can access enhanced movement with Perk options, such as the Combat Roll as part of the Mountaineer Perk and Tactical Sprint as part of the Sprinter Perk.

To learn more about what’s in store for Call of Duty: Warzone, check out the official Call of Duty Blog.

Happy Birthday Call of Duty: Mobile!

We also got a look at the upcoming Season 9 for Call of Duty: Mobile, which is celebrating its 6^th anniversary this year. There will be an upcoming collaboration with WWE superstars Alexa Bliss and Undertaker, as well as the the return of the fan-favorite Mythic Ghost Operator Skin.

The developers also showcased a new mode coming soon to Call of Duty: Mobile — DMZ: Recon. This is their take on the extraction shooter genre based on DMZ from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, taking place on the new Serpent’s Island map.

Check out the official Call of Duty: Blog for more info about all the news for Call of Duty: Mobile.

Play the Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Beta This Weekend!

Starting October 1, you can preload Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Beta. It will feature a lot of the Multiplayer content shown during Call of Duty: Next, plus the new Zombies Survival map, Vandorn Farm.

Players who have pre-ordered Black Ops 7 or players who have a subscription to select Game Pass plans can start playing when early access begins on October 2; the Open Beta kicks off on October 5 for everyone else (terms).

During the Beta you’ll be able to track and compare stats, show off your progress, and compare your skills with friends. Starting October 3 at 9am PT, your Multiplayer and Zombies stats will be ready to view here at callofduty.com/bo7betastats.

We’ll have more to share about Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Beta later this week on Xbox Wire. You can also check out the deep dive on the modes and maps here on the official Call of Duty Blog.

Pre-order Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Today!

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 launches November 14, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox on PC, and Cloud – with support for Xbox Play Anywhere and day one with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass – as well as PlayStation 4 & 5, Battle.net, and Steam. Pre-order any digital edition or subscribe to select Game Pass plans to receive Early Access to the Open Beta, as well as the Reznov Challenge Pack and Guild Override Weapon Camo (terms). Learn more here.