State of Decay 3 closed beta test to go live “before the end of 2026”

As part of Microsoft’s wide-ranging Xbox cuts earlier this Summer, the console maker parted ways with a number of its studios. One such studio was Undead Labs – who were sold off to an undisclosed company. Fortunately, this does not seem to be impacting the upcoming State of Decay 3, with the team officially announcing a closed beta test for later this year.

Taking to the Xbox Wire blog to make the announcement, Bruce Dugan – the Community Manager at Undead Labs – wrote:

“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 the zombie survival series ahead of its 2027 launch.”

This isn’t the first time a select group of players will have checked out the game early, with State of Decay 3 having already hosted alpha playtests earlier in the year. According to the team, some of the improvements made as part of these tests include: combat; lighting; SFX; weather; character animations and overall visuals.

While we have not gotten a concrete date for the beta, those interested in trying State of Decay 3 out ahead of time can sign up HERE for a chance to get in. If you aren’t selected for the initial run, you may have other opportunities, with Undead Labs promising to expand the beta “to more players over time.”

KitGuru says: Are you going to register for the beta? What are your hopes for State of Decay 3? Let us know down below.

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