Lock and load, soldier. It's almost time for the Early Access release date of WARDOGS. After several months of playtesting, the development team at BULKHEAD is nearly ready to unleash its strategic military shooter on the world. If you're excited to jump in yourself, you're in the right place. We have all the info you need on the game's release date, price, beta schedule, gameplay, and more.

WARDOGS Early Access Release Date

First announced back in February of 2026, WARDOGS will finally be available for all to enjoy on September 10th, 2026. Keep in mind that this is only the game's Early Access release. As a result, it won't be completely finished. However, it will have more features than the previous community playtests. According to the developers, the game is expected to remain in Early Access for roughly one to two years. During that time, WARDOGS will receive regular content updates, bug fixes, and tweaks. Much of this will likely be influenced by community feedback. At least during the Early Access period, it will be available exclusively on PC via Steam.

WARDOGS Closed Beta Schedule

If you pre-order WARDOGS before its Early Access release, you receive access to the closed beta. This will take place on the weekend of August 21 to August 23. The studio has confirmed, however, that full refunds will be available to those dissatisfied with the closed beta experience. The Early Access release will cost $39.99 USD. However, a Supporter Edition with additional cosmetics will also be purchasable for $49.99 USD. Additionally, the game will cost more than $39.99 once it leaves Early Access. While we don't have an exact date for its 1.0 release, the devs have confirmed that Early Access players will have a lower entry price point than later buyers.

WARDOGS Gameplay

If you're familiar with large-scale military shooters, you should feel right at home in WARDOGS, but the game does have some unique features of its own. In WARDOGS, you're not just playing to win the match, you're also playing to collect a huge amount of persistent cash. This money follows you across each of your matches, allowing you to buy new item unlocks, loadout equipment, and even vehicles, allowing you to sway the flow of battle in an instant. Complete objectives to earn more money, and you can save up enough for the game's shiniest goodies. Another unique element of the game is that it's not simply one team versus one team. WARDOGS lobbies contain 100 players split across three factions, ensuring there's always action on all fronts. Battles in WARDOGS are fierce. Occasionally, you'll have to build up a base on the fly. Sometimes, you'll have to blow up an entire enemy stronghold. The battlefield is constantly evolving, and you'll need to coordinate with your team in order to stay ahead. Even if you're not in a voice chat with them, sticking close to and working alongside your team is crucial to success. Coordinated efforts against enemy encampments can give you a huge boost. Of course, one or two squads pulling off a successful flanking maneuver can have a significant effect as well. The battles in WARDOGS rarely play out the same way. The combination of up to 100 players, destructible environments, and a large assortment of weapons makes the game a veritable sandbox of military action. While working with your team is important, it's also wise to find a role that fits your playstyle and budget and master it first. Maybe you'll be a medic who seeks out revives, or maybe you'll be the squad's designated driver. There's plenty of room for experimentation and filling your combat niche!