How to get early access to game demos and releases

 Like test driving a car, many people like to know what they're getting in advance. Here's how to get early releases of new games.

1. Sign up for newsletter

No one wants spam to fill up their inbox, but signing up for newsletters can get you some early game releases. However, it takes a structured approach.

To keep things organized, use Gmail to create labels. Sometimes they'll be ads, sometimes they'll be something worth checking out. If you want, you can unsubscribe from newsletters if you don't get any good information. Take it a step further with a disposable email.

2. Support crowdfunding projects

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Crowdfunding projects are another great way to get early access and demos for games. Now, it's worth noting that, unlike Steam, you have to stretch your faith a little bit with crowdfunding projects. First of all, Pillars of Eternity is a perfect example of this fun fact – you get early access to the beta if you donate enough (and the donations are very affordable).

This is a great way to get started on a game in development. In fact, your participation can influence the game. Sometimes, your input can lead to a whole new feature!

Be wary of scams, though, and use the same warning signs as any crowdfunding site in general. Also note that donating doesn't necessarily mean you'll get early access. Read all the fine print for details!

3. Pre-order the game

When you pre-order a game, early access is often a given. For example, Starfield and Diablo 4 are two games that if you pre-order, you get access a few days earlier than everyone else. Regardless of the dirty tactics used to get you to pre-order a game, this is still a viable option for getting early access.

If that changes your mind, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you order before the early access launch date. Finally, you may encounter server issues and errors with the trials.

4. Check online stores

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Instead of letting early access games and demos trickle down to you, why not be proactive? Online stores, from Android to PC, have varying levels of options for such experiences, including alphas and betas to sign up for.

Steam and GOG are both great for a work in progress, especially Steam. Steam has demos and early access titles as tags in the Categories drop-down menu. GOG also has an early access tag, but you'll have to use the search function for demos.

On console, the options are a bit more limited. At least it's much easier to find demos and early access games on PC. The same goes for games on Google Play or the App Store. However, mobile games tend to be free-to-play, so they always feel like they're being developed over time.

However, before signing up for the early access program, make sure you know the pros and cons of these types of games.

Whether you're impatient or just want to experience a game that's been in development for a while, early access titles and demos aren't hard to find. Online stores are where most people go, but you can use all of the above methods at some point.

Jessica Tanner

Update 30 September 2024