Gears of War 4's multiplayer beta will begin in an early access phase on April 18, followed by an open beta period for all Xbox Live Gold members on April 24, Microsoft has announced. The beta test will end for all players on May 1.

To gain access on April 18 you'll need to have played Gears of War: Ultimate Edition on Xbox One or Windows 10 before April 11 whilst logged into Xbox Live.

Gears of War 4 will also be featured at PAX East in Boston where Microsoft will be hosting a variety of fan activities: