How to Get Early Access to Elden Ring

Elden Ring’s release is upon us, but there is a way for console gamers to play the game even sooner. Here’s how to do it.

Elden Ring launches on February 25, but FromSoftware’s most dedicated fans can begin their journey a little earlier on Xbox and PlayStation.

The game has been developed in collaboration with Game of Thrones writer George R. R. Martin, who’s added his fantasy flair to the Tarnished’s backstory.

And like Martin, FromSoftware also carry a committed fanbase who will be itching to dive into the Lands Between.

Read More: Elden Ring: How to Pre-Load, Release Times & File Size

How Players Can Get Early Access to Elden Ring

Elden Ring does not have an official early access method, but it will release at midnight around the world. Users have found an exploit that can get US players exploring FromSoftware’s open-world up to 19 hours before the clock strikes midnight.

Here’s how you can do it (but PlayStation gamers be warned; there is a catch).

Make sure you know which version of Elden Ring you should be buying too!

How to Play Elden Ring Early On Xbox

To gain early access to Elden Ring on Xbox, you must change your location settings to New Zealand. This will trick your console into believing you’re based in the Oceanic region, who are almost a whole day ahead of US time zones!

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the console Settings menu.
2. Press System, then Language & Location.
3. Within Location, select New Zealand.
4. Restart your console to bring the change into action.

Now you can purchase or play Elden Ring before your local release! But could Elden Ring be coming to Xbox Game Pass?

It’s that simple, but now for the PlayStation catch…

How to Play Elden Ring Early On PlayStation

PlayerStation users can follow a similar method to gain premature access to Elden Ring, but there are important differences for Sony fans to consider.

Here’s the method for PlayStation:

1. Set up a New Zealand-based account.
2. Buy the game in New Zealand dollars.
3. Preload the game.
4. Play Elden Ring 19 hours early!

PlayStation gamers who choose to access Elden Ring early using this method must continue to play the entire game through their NZ account. The game may also cost more through the NZ store than it would through the US store. Take these points into account when making your decision.

Elden Ring will undoubtedly be in the ‘Game of the Year’ discussion when 2022 wraps up. Time will tell if it lives up to the hype.

If you still can’t wait to experience Elden ring, make sure you check out the full intro cinematic which leaked earlier this week!

And if you’re already planning your first playthrough, you’ll want to see our in-depth breakdown of the playable character classes in anticipation of Elden Ring’s launch.