WARDOGS second closed beta begins ahead of Early Access launch
WARDOGS is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about upcoming multiplayer shooters on Steam, and its next major test is about to begin. The large-scale FPS, often compared to Battlefield because of its massive battles and vehicle-based warfare, is returning for a second closed beta before its Early Access launch on September 10.
The new closed beta starts today, September 3, at 8:00 PM German time and will run until September 6. This test is especially important for developer BULKHEAD, as the studio plans to push the game’s online systems harder than before and gather crucial data ahead of release.
At first glance, WARDOGS looks like a traditional large-scale military shooter, but it introduces several features that could help it stand out in a crowded FPS market. Matches support up to 100 players, but instead of the usual two-team format, WARDOGS uses a three-team battle system. This setup is designed to make each match more unpredictable, forcing players to think beyond simple attack-and-defend tactics.
The game also includes infantry combat, vehicles, destructible environments, and base building. Together, these systems aim to create a more strategic experience than a typical arcade-style shooter. Players will not only need fast reflexes, but also teamwork, positioning, and smart use of the battlefield.
The first beta, held in August, attracted a huge number of players and gave BULKHEAD plenty of feedback. While the strong turnout showed that interest in WARDOGS is already high, it also exposed several technical problems that need to be addressed before Early Access begins.
For the second closed beta, the main goal is server stress testing. BULKHEAD wants as many players as possible online at the same time to test how well the game can handle heavy demand. The studio will be examining server scaling, login queues, the server browser, voice chat, Twitch Drops, and DLC entitlements.
This suggests the developer is preparing for a busy launch window. Interest in the game has grown rapidly, with more than 130,000 players already adding WARDOGS to their Steam wishlists. For a new multiplayer shooter, that level of early attention is a strong sign that the FPS community is watching closely.
Access to the second closed beta is guaranteed for players who have pre-ordered WARDOGS on Steam. The standard edition is currently priced at around $40, while the Supporter Edition costs around $50 and includes additional cosmetic items.
Players who have not pre-ordered can still request access through the game’s Steam playtest system, but entry is not guaranteed. BULKHEAD is sending out invitations in waves, so some players may get in later during the test period, while others may not receive access at all.
With its 100-player battles, three-team warfare, vehicles, destruction, and tactical base-building mechanics, WARDOGS is shaping up to be one of the more ambitious multiplayer FPS releases of the year. The second closed beta will be a major test of whether its servers and systems are ready for the attention it is already receiving.
If BULKHEAD can solve the technical issues from the first beta and deliver stable large-scale matches, WARDOGS could become a serious contender for players looking for a fresh Battlefield-style shooter with deeper tactical options.
