All Gears of War: E-Day pre-orders include two things: early access to the Open Beta and the Exfil cosmetic set at launch. The pre-order window runs until the October 6, 2026 full launch (7:59 AM PT), so the cosmetic bonuses are still claimable on purchases made now; the beta portion is history.
Pre-order Bonuses
| Bonus | Detail | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Open Beta early access | Early window August 6–10, 2026 (pre-orders + Game Pass subs); free open weekend followed August 13–17 | Beta concluded |
| Exfil Dom Legendary Character Skin | Unlocked in-game at launch | Confirmed |
| Exfil Legendary Weapon Skin Set | Unlocked in-game at launch | Confirmed |
| "Ride The Lightning" weapon skins | Metallica-themed pre-order item reported by NME | Reported, verify at checkout |
Premium-tier buyers who pre-ordered are already playing: early access opened October 1. Everyone else joins on October 6, see the release date page for the full timeline.
Where to Buy
- Xbox Store, all editions, including the physical Collector's Edition for Xbox Series X
- Steam, Standard, Premium and the digital Collector's package (app 3010850)
- Xbox app (PC), with Xbox Play Anywhere entitlement on the same purchase
- Participating retailers where noted, bonus codes may be single-use per retailer
Are the Bonuses Exclusive Forever?
The Exfil skins are described as launch unlockables tied to pre-orders, Xbox has not said whether they will be sold later. Historically, Gears pre-order skins have returned to the store, so treat "exclusive" as "exclusive at launch" until stated otherwise.
The cosmetics stance matters here: The Coalition has publicly emphasized there are no pay-to-win items, and the multiplayer reward model avoids a battle pass, see the Horde Siege page for how progression works.
Questions
What do you get for pre-ordering Gears of War: E-Day?
The Exfil Dom Legendary Character Skin and Exfil Legendary Weapon Skin Set at launch, plus Open Beta early access (the beta has concluded).
Can I still get beta access by pre-ordering now?
No, the beta window has passed. Purchases before the October 6 launch still include the cosmetic bonuses.
What is Iron?
Iron is E-Day's premium in-game currency. 1,000 Iron comes with the Premium and Collector's Editions, see the editions comparison.
Is there an upgrade path from Standard to Premium?
Yes, a digital Premium Edition Upgrade is available on both Xbox and Steam; upgrading is also how Standard owners jump into early access before October 6.