Payday: Aces High Launches Second Public Playtest
Players on Meta Quest and Steam can now test the upcoming title and earn an exclusive in-game reward.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Gaming
Live Poll
Do you plan to participate in this game's public playtest before the final release?
The second public playtest for the video game Payday: Aces High is now live on Meta Quest and Steam. Participants who engage in the trial can secure a limited edition Kitty mask to use in the full version of the game.
Why it matters
Public playtests provide developers with critical feedback to refine mechanics before the official product launch. This trial also serves to build early engagement through exclusive digital incentives.
The full game will launch with seven missions for a retail price of $24.99. Players can unlock various weapons, traps, and masks during the test period by earning in-game currency.
The details
Interested users can access the test by visiting the store pages on the Steam and Meta Quest platforms. Players are able to experiment with different abilities, weapons, and traps to progress through the available content.
Timeline
The playtest began on October 19, 2026.
The playtest concludes on October 26, 2026.
The full game is scheduled for release on November 5, 2026.
Culture Shift
This release strategy reflects the growing trend of utilizing early-access playtests to build community-driven momentum before a major launch. It underscores how developers leverage digital platforms to transition from open testing to commercial retail environments.
Players can gain a competitive edge by earning the exclusive Kitty mask before the official game launch. Following the conclusion of the test, users will need to purchase the game for $24.99 to continue playing after November 5, 2026.
The takeaway
Engaging in public playtests allows players to familiarize themselves with game mechanics while securing unique digital items. These sessions are an effective way to preview upcoming titles before committing to the full purchase price.
What happens next
The full game of Payday: Aces High is confirmed for release on November 5, 2026.
Further reading
Discover more about the latest developments in the industry on our Gaming section.
Live Poll
Do you plan to participate in this game's public playtest before the final release?
