Modern Warfare 4 DMZ Early Access Is Almost Here!

Both the Standard Digital Edition and Vault Edition qualify, meaning players do not need to purchase the more expensive edition to enter DMZ early.

DMZ Early Access progression will count toward Modern Warfare 4

Perhaps the most important detail for players preparing for the full launch is that progress made during DMZ Early Access will not be wasted.

Activision has confirmed that XP and Weapon XP earned during the early access period will contribute to Modern Warfare 4's career progression and unlocks, including Weapon Camos.

This means players can begin developing their weapons before Multiplayer becomes available on October 23.

The implications become clearer when looking at Activision's previously published official DMZ progression guide.

Weapon progression is shared between DMZ and Multiplayer, allowing players to work toward weapon levels and attachment unlocks across both modes.

DMZ also has a separate progression system featuring 70 levels, while XP earned in DMZ contributes to the standard 55-level career progression track.

However, the relationship is not entirely reciprocal. XP earned in Multiplayer or Warzone does not increase a player's separate DMZ Level.

There's also a distinction between weapon progression and weapon availability. Although weapon levels are shared, players must still obtain and successfully extract with the appropriate Weapon Manual to unlock a base weapon for purchase through the DMZ Gunsmith.

Another useful detail is that DMZ XP earned during a deployment still counts even if the player fails to extract successfully.

Why playing DMZ early could be useful for Multiplayer

The October 20 opening offers more than an opportunity to experience Modern Warfare 4's extraction gameplay ahead of the official release.

Because weapon progression carries between modes, players interested in Multiplayer can use the early access period to begin leveling weapons and unlocking attachments they intend to use after October 23.

It also provides an opportunity to explore DMZ's Hajin map, complete Story Missions and Dynamic Operations, and become familiar with the Forward Operating Base and its progression systems.

For players primarily interested in competitive loadouts, the biggest advantage is straightforward: time spent progressing weapons in DMZ can contribute toward building their arsenal before Multiplayer launches.

With the required update scheduled for October 19 and DMZ opening on October 20, digitally pre-ordered Modern Warfare 4 players now have a confirmed timetable for their next opportunity to start progressing.