Here comes the best time of the year… Autumn, Halloween, Hot Chocolate, Fluffy Jumpers and the Fallout 76 B.E.T.A. We’ve known since E3 that Fallout 76 would be a ‘softcore survival’ game and that there would be a B.E.T.A which would support Bethesda in ironing out any bumps before its launch on November 14th, 2018.
We already knew there would be access to this B.E.T.A if you pre-ordered via PS4, Xbox One or PC. By now you should have received a code from the retailer you pre-ordered from. If you are a PC Gamer, unfortunately you will not be able to go to Steam for your download. Instead, it was announced very recently, that you need to visit Bethesda.net to purchase.
The Fallout 76 B.E.T.A will start in October 2018 with Xbox One players getting the opportunity to play first. It will then be rolled out to the other platforms. So make sure you’ve got some time off work, some snacks and your Pip Boy ready as you emerge into the world of West Virginia.
One of the biggest unknowns was whether the B.E.T.A would feature the whole game or just a snippet and if progress would carry over when the game is released in November 2018. Over the past week, Bethesda has confirmed that the B.E.T.A will be the entire game.
For the majority of fans this will be extremely exciting news and the possibilities will be endless. Since Bethesda have stated in their Fallout 76 FAQ, that ‘feedback is essential’, it means players will explore the map in its entirety. Thus, any bugs or areas that don’t seem to work will be immediately flagged to Bethesda who can improve before the game is released.
Having your progress transfer over at launch is a huge bonus for newcomers and veterans alike who find they enjoy the game and play relentlessly… so, me!
Alternatively, for people who have hopes of starting completely fresh on the release date and want to use the B.E.T.A to merely test the waters, having the entire map open to them might not be welcomed with a sunny smile. Furthermore, if half your group has pre-ordered and you don’t have the ability to, you may feel a little bit behind. However my fellow Vault Dwellers, don’t despair, you will be able to play solo if you are so inclined.
Another exciting development is that “the B.E.T.A will not be under NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement)” as stated in the Fallout 76 FAQ. As Fallout 76 will have a photo mode, (as if it couldn’t get any better), it means you can share the rads out of the B.E.T.A. You will be able to post screenshots, videos and even stream your time in West Virginia. Fantastic for people who haven’t pre-ordered but want to see what all the hubbub is about! Although, October might turn into Spoiler City.
Jurassica was extremely helpful in providing information on how the B.E.T.A will work. She has stated that candidates will be selected, starting in October, from the pool of Vault Dwellers who have pre-ordered the game. As time progresses more and more people will be given the chance to participate until everyone who pre-ordered is included. If you want to read her whole forum post – here it is.
So, redeem your B.E.T.A code and wait anxiously with Nuka Cola in hand. I hope to see you in October!
