Undead Labs has confirmed that closed beta playtests for State of Decay 3 are scheduled for sometime before the end of 2026. This marks the first substantial opportunity for players outside the development team to experience the zombie survival sequel firsthand. The announcement comes shortly after Undead Labs separated from Xbox, though the studio hasn't detailed how that shift affects the game's development trajectory or platform plans.
The beta represents a significant milestone in State of Decay 3's path to release, offering the community its most extensive hands-on access to the game to date. Details about sign-up procedures, player capacity, or specific features being tested remain unconfirmed in available reports.
- State of Decay 3 closed beta playtests arrive in 2026, giving players their first real chance to test the game before launch.
- The announcement follows Undead Labs' recent departure from Xbox, a development that could signal changes ahead for the franchise.
- Specifics about beta scope, access methods, and tested content have not yet been disclosed.
All coverage
KitGuru
· Aug 28, 11:30 UTC
State of Decay 3 closed beta test to go live “before the end of 2026”
Ahead of its arrival next year, State of Decay 3 will be hosting a closed beta test later in 2026, with sign-ups available now. The post State of Decay 3 closed beta test to go live “before the end of 2026” first appeared on KitGuru .
Gamingbolt
· Aug 27, 18:16 UTC
State of Decay 3 Closed Beta Scheduled for Later This Year
Following feedback from the closed alpha, Undead Labs promises improvements to movement, visuals, combat, cosmetics, and more.
IGN
· Aug 27, 15:54 UTC
State of Decay 3 Announces Closed Beta Playtests Later This Year
State of Decay 3 fans will have the chance to play the game later this year via a closed beta.
GameSpot
· Aug 26, 15:16 UTC
Following Xbox Breakup, State Of Decay 3 Will Return With A Closed Beta Playtest
While Microsoft reportedly sold developer Undead Labs to a mystery buyer , the Washington-based studio is keeping its zombie survival game State of Decay 3 alive and well. And now, it plans to host another playtest sometime later this year.…
TrueAchievements
· Aug 26, 14:44 UTC
Xbox reaffirms State of Decay 3 for Game Pass and announces closed beta
State of Decay 3 is coming to Game Pass
Eurogamer
· Aug 26, 12:45 UTC
State of Decay 3 lives on after studio's separation from Xbox, with a closed beta promised for this year
Undead Labs has announced that a closed State of Decay 3 beta is coming sometime in 2026, weeks after the studio separated from Xbox.
Major Nelson Xbox
· Aug 26, 10:00 UTC
State of Decay 3: Closed Beta Playtests Will Open the Game to Even More Players This Year
Survivors, start stocking up on supplies because you’re going to want to be ready. Closed beta playtests for State of Decay 3 are on the way before the end of 2026, giving the community its biggest hands-on look yet at the next chapter of t…