‘Rust Console Edition’ release date: Devs clarify pre-order beta access ‘will start at a later date’

Double Eleven finally released more details about the much-awaited launch of “Rust Console Edition,” including its exact release date. However, some fans expressed disappointment after only finding out later that pre-ordering the game will not get them to join the beta test instantly.

‘Rust Console Edition’ pre-order gets fans beta access, but not immediately

Following the game’s successful launch on PC in 2018, console players have been waiting to hear about the release of “Rust Console Edition.” The anticipation only grew further when developer Facepunch Studios and publisher Double Eleven announced that the game was delayed from its 2020 release to a new launch schedule in spring 2021.

With the much hype around the multiplayer-only survival game, it is not surprising that fans have also been eager to join the beta tests for “Rust Console Edition.” It was then a huge deal when developers added beta access as one of the perks when pre-ordering the game. However, the excitement turned to frustration when Double Eleven later announced that console players will still have to wait to enjoy their beta access even if they pay for the game today.

In a follow-up tweet on Friday, the developers issued the much-needed clarification stating, “The exclusive closed beta test for pre-orders will start at a later date.” Meanwhile, the official pre-order page for “Rust Console Edition” now specifically mentions that pre-orders come with beta access that will start sometime in April.

Screenshot from Rust’s official pre-order page

While confusion could be an understandable source of frustration, the good news April begins in a few days so the wait should not be that long for those eager to try the game before its official launch. It should also be noted that the beta access is only included in the Deluxe and Ultimate versions of the “Rust Console Edition” pre-orders, which cost $59.99 and $79.99 respectively, on PlayStation and Xbox. Both bundles also come with three-day early access and staging branch access that are not available in the Standard version of the game.

‘Rust Console Edition’ release date confirmed in May

Fans can only hope that the pre-order beta access would start early in April so they could have enough time to test the game before it officially goes live. “Rust Console Edition” is confirmed to launch on May 21 on PS4 and Xbox One. IGN notes that the game will also be playable on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S through backward compatibility.