Call of Duty Black Ops 6 launch times
October 16, 2024

Call Of Duty: Black Ops 6 Preload & Launch Times Detailed

By Ovais Mirza

With the highly anticipated release of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 just around the corner, fans across the globe are gearing up for another exciting installment in this iconic FPS series. Whether you’re playing on PC, PlayStation, or Xbox, it’s time to mark your calendars as Activision has officially revealed the preload and launch times for the game. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to prepare for the big day!

DetailInformation
Preload DateOctober 21, 2024, 9 AM PT / Noon ET
Preload PlatformsAll platforms (PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, Battle.net, Microsoft Store)
Launch Date (Xbox/PC)October 24, 2024, 4 AM PT to 11 PM PT (regional rollout)
Launch Date (PlayStation)October 24, 2024, 4 AM PT to 11 PM PT (regional rollout)
Launch Date (Steam/Battle.net)October 24, 2024, 9 PM PT / Midnight ET October 25
Download SizesPS5 Campaign Pack 1: 16.4GB, Pack 2: 20GB; PS4 Campaign Pack 1: 1.5GB, Pack 2: 15.9GB; PS4 Multiplayer: 12.1GB; Zombies and PS5 Multiplayer sizes not available yet.
Nuketown Map ReleaseNovember 1, 2024
Availability on Xbox Game PassDay-One Release on Xbox Game Pass for Ultimate Plan and PC Game Pass subscribers.
Internet Requirement for CampaignInternet connection required for campaign mode.

Preload Times for Black Ops 6: Get Ready Early!

First things first—if you want to jump into the action as soon as the game goes live, preloading is your best bet. Activision has made it convenient for players to download Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 ahead of time so they can be ready the moment the game officially launches.

Here are the preload details:

  • Preload Date for All Platforms: October 21
  • Preload Time: 9 AM PT / Noon ET

No matter which platform you’re on—be it PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, or Battle.net—you can start downloading the game early on October 21. Keep in mind that this is an essential step, especially given that Black Ops games are known for having large file sizes. That way, you’ll be all set to dive into the gameplay without waiting for a massive download when it officially goes live.

Launch Times: When Can You Play?

The launch times for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 vary slightly between platforms and regions, so here’s a breakdown to make sure you know when you can officially start playing:

Xbox and Microsoft Store (PC)

  • Launch Date: October 24
  • Time: Between 4 AM PT and 11 PM PT (region-dependent)

PlayStation

  • Launch Date: October 24
  • Time: Between 4 AM PT and 11 PM PT (region-dependent)

Steam and Battle.net (PC)

  • Launch Date: October 24
  • Time: 9 PM PT (Midnight ET October 25)

While PlayStation and Xbox follow regional launch timings that range from early morning to late night on October 24, PC gamers on Steam and Battle.net will see a more fixed time—9 PM PT on October 24, or midnight ET for those on the East Coast.

This staggered launch helps ensure smooth server traffic, allowing players to enjoy a more seamless experience as they gear up for action.

Download Sizes: How Big is Black Ops 6?

While specific preload sizes haven’t been fully revealed by Activision, CharlieIntel reports that PlayStation 5 users can expect the campaign mode to take up significantly more space compared to PlayStation 4. Here’s a snapshot of the reported sizes:

  • PS5 Campaign Pack 1: 16.4GB
  • PS5 Campaign Pack 2: 20GB
  • PS4 Campaign Pack 1: 1.5GB
  • PS4 Campaign Pack 2: 15.9GB
  • PS4 Multiplayer Pack: 12.1GB

Information for PS5 multiplayer downloads and Zombies mode are not available yet, but you can expect similar large file sizes. If you’re on PS4, be prepared for around 12GB for the multiplayer download. It’s a good idea to free up space on your console in advance so you don’t run into any delays.

Call of Duty on Xbox Game Pass

In an exciting turn of events for Xbox users, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available on Xbox Game Pass right from the start as a Day-One Release. That means if you’re subscribed to the premium Ultimate Plan or PC Game Pass, you’ll be able to access the game at no extra cost, whether you’re playing on console, PC, or even the cloud!

This is a major win for Game Pass subscribers, as Black Ops 6 is expected to be one of the biggest game releases of the year. So, if you haven’t already signed up for Game Pass, now might be the perfect time.

Multiplayer and Nuketown Release Date

If you’re a fan of Nuketown, get excited. The iconic multiplayer map is confirmed to make its return in Black Ops 6 and will be available starting November 1. This map has been a fan favorite across multiple Call of Duty titles, known for its fast-paced, close-quarters combat. Whether you’re a veteran of the series or new to Nuketown, it’s a map you won’t want to miss.

Additionally, Treyarch, the developer of Black Ops 6, has made a strong commitment to continue cracking down on hate speech and toxic behavior in the multiplayer environment. This is part of the ongoing efforts to ensure a positive and inclusive gaming experience for all players.

What You Need to Know About the Campaign Mode

For those more interested in the campaign side of Black Ops 6, it’s worth noting that an internet connection will be required to play the campaign. This means that even though you’re playing a single-player mode, you’ll need to be online.

For those unfamiliar with the Black Ops storyline, GameSpot has created an explainer of the Black Ops series to help get you up to speed. With five games already in the subseries, the narrative can be a bit complex, but longtime fans of the franchise will be thrilled to continue the saga.

FAQs

1. When can I start preloading Call of Duty: Black Ops 6?

You can start preloading Black Ops 6 on October 21 at 9 AM PT / Noon ET across all platforms.

2. What time does Black Ops 6 officially launch?

Launch times vary depending on your platform:
Xbox and Microsoft Store (PC): Between 4 AM PT and 11 PM PT on October 24, depending on your region.
PlayStation: Also between 4 AM PT and 11 PM PT on October 24.
Steam and Battle.net (PC): 9 PM PT on October 24 (Midnight ET, October 25).

3. How big is the download for Black Ops 6?

Exact sizes haven’t been confirmed for all platforms, but PS5 users can expect around 36.4GB for the campaign, while PS4 will need around 17.4GB. Multiplayer downloads on PS4 are approximately 12.1GB.

4. Will Black Ops 6 be available on Xbox Game Pass?

Yes, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be available on Xbox Game Pass as a Day-One Release for users subscribed to the Ultimate Plan or PC Game Pass.

5. When will the Nuketown map be available in Black Ops 6?

The iconic Nuketown map will be available starting November 1, offering fast-paced multiplayer action for fans.