Fallout 76 first Xbox One test goes live this weekend

Bethesda has detailed a surprise "stress test" on the horizon for its upcoming shared-world RPG, Fallout 76, heading exclusively to Xbox One owners. In partnership with Microsoft's Xbox Insider Program, the test will allow select members to play the game early, prior to the full-scale beta set for later this month. More importantly, this test commences extremely soon – Saturday, October 13, 2018.

The Fallout 76 stress test features comparable content to the full B.E.T.A., however, has significant restrictions not associated with the wider test. Firstly, this test is restricted to select Xbox Insiders who have preordered Fallout 76 exclusively in the U.S. However, even if meeting these criteria, it appears only select players will be granted entry to the test.

Bethesda states the stress test is an early version of the full game, prior to the build planned for the closed beta. Unlike the beta, this means progression also won't transfer forward to the final release. The session is also covered by a strict non-disclosure agreement (NDA) which prevents participants from sharing their experience.

If you're yet to join the Xbox Insider Program, our cohesive guide breaks it down step-by-step. Once enrolled, eligible users will find the "Fallout 76 Stress Test" within the Xbox Insider Hub, under the Insider Content tab. After joining, the game download will be pushed to your console.

For more details on the Fallout 76 stress test, check out Bethesda's full Q&A page.

Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.