Which Upcoming Console Games Offer Pre-Release Access?

Why Developers Are Offering Early Access

Early access isn’t just a marketing stunt it’s a response to real pressure from fans who don’t want to wait. With demand growing from die hard communities, studios are giving players the chance to get in early, test drive the experience, and feel like insiders. Whether it’s new mechanics or first look storylines, early access puts superfans right where they want to be: hands on before the rest.

This also helps developers stress test their infrastructure. Online games live and die by how well servers hold up under pressure. Soft launching to a smaller group surfaces issues before the floodgates open. Crashes, lag, and balance problems are easier to identify and fix when they’re happening at scale but in a controlled way.

And of course, early access builds hype. Communities form fast when there’s early content to talk about, stream, and break down. Invite only betas and timed releases create a sense of urgency and if handled right, loyalty. It’s less about perfection and more about momentum. For developers and players alike, early access is becoming part of the game.

Titles with Confirmed Pre Release Access

Here’s a breakdown of the most anticipated console games that are offering early access options ahead of their full launch:

StarForge: Remnant Protocol

Type: Sci fi action RPG
Pre Release Access: Available in beta form for players who purchase deluxe or collector’s editions
Extras Included:
Exclusive in game gear
Unique armor set only obtainable during early access

Echo Veil

Type: Narrative driven RPG with heavy player choice elements
Early Access Window: 72 hour head start granted to all players who pre order
Benefits:
Early look at branching storylines
Minor in game currency bonus at full release

MechArena: Zero Point

Type: Competitive multiplayer mech shooter
Access Details:
Early access available on select platforms (PlayStation 5 and PC confirmed)
Participants get early maps and two limited edition mech skins
Note: Progress may be wiped before full launch

Hauntreach

Type: Horror survival with a heavy emphasis on exploration and audio design
How to Gain Access:
Subscribe to the game’s official newsletter for an early access pass
Limited to a capped number of participants
Perks:
Early glimpse at first act
Feedback opportunity directly influencing the final game’s pacing and difficulty

Each of these early access offerings serves a unique strategy from stress testing online infrastructure to fueling fan excitement. Just make sure to read the fine print before jumping in.

What You Actually Get in Pre Release

Early access might sound like an invitation to the full game, but what’s actually included can vary widely from title to title. Understanding these limitations and benefits can help you decide whether jumping in early is worth your time and your money.

Limited Access, Not the Full Experience

Many early access offers do not include the complete game. Instead, players typically get:
A partial campaign or a few starter missions
Limited multiplayer functionality or time restricted servers
Core mechanics without late game content

In most cases, the goal is to give players a taste while allowing developers to test and tweak features in real time.

Common Perks for Early Access Players

Despite the limitations, early access often comes with enticing extras:
Weapon skins and cosmetics unique to early adopters
Exclusive missions that may not be available post launch
Early character or ability unlocks to give you a head start

These incentives can add long term value for players invested in the game’s ecosystem.

Know the Risks

However, early access also comes with some drawbacks. Since the game isn’t finalized, players may experience:
Buggy builds, from minor glitches to game breaking issues
Server instability, especially in multiplayer modes
Incomplete progression or save data that won’t carry over to the full release

Before committing, it’s wise to read the fine print and check community feedback. Not all early access experiences are created equal.

Ultimately, early access can be exciting and rewarding but it’s essential to go in knowing exactly what you’re signing up for.

Pre Order vs. Early Access: Know the Difference

Understanding the distinction between pre orders and early access is key to managing expectations and getting the most out of your investment.

What You Get with a Pre Order

Pre ordering a game typically comes with set guarantees:
Day one access to the full game at launch
Possible bonus content such as:
Exclusive skins
Extra currency or equipment
Special in game items or missions
Access to premium editions or bundles before they sell out

Pre orders are generally a commitment to the final, polished version of the game.

What Early Access Really Means

Early access, on the other hand, is often a preview period where the game is still under development. These editions are typically used by studios to test functionality, gather feedback, and fine tune systems before the full release.

Expectations during early access:
Potential bugs or unfinished features
Limited content or segmented gameplay
Save data may not carry over to the full release
Opportunity to provide feedback that may shape the final game

The Trade Off

While early access gives you a head start, it’s important to remember:
Early doesn’t always mean better
You might encounter technical issues or incomplete systems
The final product may differ significantly from what you experience in early access

Before committing, it’s worth reading the game’s development roadmap and publisher policies on updates, support, and refunds.

Get the full list of supported platforms and pre order details

Explore all confirmed editions and launch bonuses

Should You Buy In?

Early access isn’t for everyone, but for the right kind of player, it makes all the difference.

If you’re competitive, those extra few days on the battlefield count. Learning the maps, testing builds, dialing in movement early access gives you a head start. In multiplayer shooters or PvP heavy games, that window lets you sharpen your edge before the wider crowd piles in.

Collectors have their own reasons. Skins that are only available during early access or exclusive gear tied to special editions? These become digital trophies. For some players, they’re worth the price of admission just for bragging rights and uniqueness down the line.

But if you’re the type who values stability over speed, early access could feel more like a gamble. Rough patches, half finished features, and progress wipes are still common. Waiting a few weeks might deliver a bug free, smoother ride.

In the end, it’s about priorities. Do you want to be first on the scene or do you care more about polish? There’s no wrong move. Just don’t expect both.

The Bottom Line

Early access has shifted from a fringe perk to a mainstream marketing strategy. Developers want to build hype and get feedback before full release, and gamers want a head start. But jumping in early comes with strings attached.

You’re often not getting the full experience. Early access builds can be buggy, unbalanced, or missing key features entirely. Some offer just a few hours of play or limited content paths. If you’re expecting a polished game from day one, early access will probably let you down.

It’s also worth checking the fine print. Some publishers allow refunds if issues pop up; others don’t. And content guarantees vary wildly what you see in early access might change, or never make it to launch. Before you spend, know exactly what you’re buying into.

Bottom line: early access can be a fun bonus if you’re willing to ride the bumps. Just don’t mistake early for finished.