FM26 Early Beta Access Explained

Football Manager 2026 UI Reveal marked the beginning of the pre-order period. We already got a glimpse of the new Unity powered match engine graphics which naturally outshines everything else on the list of FM26 new features.

But even if we didn't know anything about the upcoming FM, I'd still have purchased my Steam key through here very early on. After missing a release cycle, I can't wait to try what's in store for us after 2 years in the making.

Doesn't that make FM26 worth buying? Well, you already know the answer. I can only speak for myself and say I'd buy the game even without any new features.

The tradition of the "Early Signing Bonus" continues. Sports Interactive involve their loyal customers in the final beta testing stage of the game that lasts about 2 weeks. Beta is a full game, just not the final product.

Advanced Access to FM26 is a special reward for people who pre-purchase the game – you'll get access to a beta version of the game approximately 2 weeks upfront, a chance to win a key of Genie Scout 26g, plus a couple of FM Scout exclusive rewards.

So what are you waiting for?

Pre-Purchase FM26 from FM Scout Start playing ~2 weeks earlier with advanced access, and enter a special giveaway for 5 chances to win GS26g.

What is this beta version?

• Beta version will be very close to the final game.
• All game modes should be available to play. However, if the game proves unstable, online modes will be disabled with a patch.
• Saved games will be compatible with the final game.
• The game will automatically update to the final version on the official release date.
• Likely limitation (based on past FM): no pre-game editor and no in-game editor.

FM26 Pre-Release Beta Explained

Who can get access to the Beta?
Anyone who pre-purchases the game through our official store will be given a Steam key which will grant immediate access to the game. The early access period will be approximately 2 weeks – allowing people who pre-purchase to start playing a beta version of the game before its final release.

Do I get the Beta if I pre-ordered the game on PS5/Xbox?
No, Early Access is only for the PC edition of the game. This is the official wording about it: "Advanced Access will be available on Steam and Epic Games approximately 2 weeks before the official street date."

Do I have to buy the game before the Beta drops to get early access?
You can buy the game even after the Beta is released and get instant access.

Is Beta the Demo?
No, it's NOT the demo. It's a pre-release version of the game and you can play as much as you like, there is no season limit or anything. The demo will be released either on final game release day or shortly after.

What do I get from you when I pre-purchase?
Your code will be instantly available to you through our partnered store. Upon successful payment, wait a few seconds. Then go to My Account > Product Library to find your FM26 Steam key.

How will I know when I can access it?
Early access will unlock on October 23. That will give you 12 days before the final release date of the game. You can buy it now and access the beta early.

How do I access the beta?
To access the beta you will need the Steam activation code from our store. Once you have the code, you can redeem it on Steam and get the game on your Steam Library. You will need internet access for this to work.

How long does the beta code take to install?
This will very much depend on your internet connection speed. For example with an average speed of 2mb/s it might take 40 minutes. Please note however this is only a rough estimate and it will vary.

Will I be able to play Network Games on the beta version?
Yes, all game modes, including Network Games will likely be available to play with the pre-release beta. That is not officially confirmed yet, but it's the likely scenario based on what happened in previous years.

Will the Data Editor be included with the Pre-Release Beta?
No, the Data Editor normally becomes available for download when the full version is released in November. The same applies to the paid in-game editor.

How much space will the game take up on my PC/Mac?
Around 20gb of hard drive space will be required to install the game.

What happens when the game is released?
Your game will automatically update from beta to final version on the launch day (November 4).

What happens to my beta game post release?
Your beta game will remain as a saved game and you'll be able to continue playing post release.

How much does it cost?

The price is set to £38.94 for UK and €46.73 for the rest of Europe. If you live outside Europe, you will get a price of $46.73, or the relevant pricing in your region.

Pre-Purchase FM26 from fmscout.com to get Advanced Access to the Pre-Release Beta version, 5 chances to win the 'g' edition of Genie Scout 26, and our gratitude for supporting our community financially.

1) Clicking the "Add to Cart" button will take you to our fanatical store and add FM26 to your shopping cart.

2) You'll be asked to sign in or create an account on fanatical to complete your purchase.

If you already have an account there, log in with it. Otherwise register with one of the available options.

3) Once logged in, select your desired payment method (between Card, PayPal and Google Pay) to complete your order.

Cheaper than the official Steam store
UK: Our price £38.94 - Steam store £44.99
Europe: Our price €46.73 - Steam store €53.99
Rest of the world: Our price $46.73 - Steam store $53.99