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Release dates by platform
| Platform | Release date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PC (Steam) | August 3, 2026 | Steam listing shows Aug 3; unlock expected 5PM PT (see below) |
| PlayStation 5 | August 4, 2026 | Console launches typically unlock at midnight local time |
| Xbox Series X|S | August 4, 2026 | Day one on Game Pass Ultimate |
| Nintendo Switch / Switch 2 | Not releasing | Despite Game Freak's Nintendo history, no Nintendo version exists |
Expected unlock times by region (PC / Steam)
Fictions has scheduled its review embargo for 5:00 PM PT on August 3, the standard pattern for a global simultaneous PC unlock at the same hour. Here's what that time means in your region:
| Region / Time zone | Expected PC unlock |
|---|---|
| Pacific (PT) | 5:00 PM — August 3 |
| Mountain (MT) | 6:00 PM — August 3 |
| Central (CT) | 7:00 PM — August 3 |
| Eastern (ET) | 8:00 PM — August 3 |
| Brazil (BRT) | 9:00 PM — August 3 |
| UK (BST) | 1:00 AM — August 4 |
| Central Europe (CEST) | 2:00 AM — August 4 |
| China (CST) | 8:00 AM — August 4 |
| Japan / Korea (JST/KST) | 9:00 AM — August 4 |
| Australia East (AET) | 10:00 AM — August 4 |
| New Zealand (NZST) | 12:00 PM — August 4 |
Console unlock times (PS5 & Xbox)
PlayStation 5 digital titles usually unlock at midnight local time on August 4 in each region. Xbox digital releases (including Game Pass) typically go live for everyone simultaneously — historically midnight ET or in a global wave. On Game Pass, the game appears in your library the moment it's live; see our Game Pass guide for how to preinstall.
Review embargo schedule
Reviews publish August 3 at 5:00 PM PT — one day before the console launch. If you're deciding between buying at $59.99 or playing through Game Pass, scores will be out before consoles unlock:
| Time zone | Reviews go live |
|---|---|
| PT | 5:00 PM — Aug 3 |
| ET | 8:00 PM — Aug 3 |
| BST | 1:00 AM — Aug 4 |
| CEST | 2:00 AM — Aug 4 |
| JST | 9:00 AM — Aug 4 |
Can you preload Beast of Reincarnation?
Preload availability hasn't been formally announced for all platforms. As standard practice: Steam preloads for major releases typically open 24–48 hours before unlock; PS5 preloads usually open two days before launch once you've pre-ordered; Game Pass users can often preinstall from the "Coming soon" section of the Xbox app. We'll confirm each platform's preload window here as soon as it opens.
What to do while you wait
- Compare the Standard and Deluxe editions and pre-order bonuses before unlock.
- Check the PC system requirements — note the game requires Windows 11.
- Read how the unusual hybrid combat system works so you're ready at the first boss.
- Meet Emma and Koo and the world of Japan 4026.