Directive 8020 opened preload approximately 48 hours before launch on consoles and ~20 hours before launch on Steam. Below is the per-platform schedule and unlock window so you can be ready at countdown zero.
Preload schedule
| Platform | Preload opens | Unlock |
|---|---|---|
| PS5 | May 10, 2026 (48h pre-release) | May 12 — 00:00 local |
| Xbox Series X|S | May 10, 2026 | May 12 — 00:00 local |
| Steam (PC) | May 11 — 18:00 UTC | May 12 — 14:00 UTC global |
FAQ
When can I preload Directive 8020?
PS5 and Xbox preload opened roughly 48 hours before launch — May 10, 2026. Steam preload began on May 11 at 18:00 UTC, ahead of the global 14:00 UTC unlock on May 12.
Is the Steam unlock global or regional?
Steam unlocks Directive 8020 globally at 14:00 UTC on May 12, 2026. PS5 and Xbox unlock at midnight in the user's local time zone instead.