Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 has officially launched. Activision’s global release date is October 23, 2026. Anyone who wants to start playing today needs to consider both which edition to purchase and, if playing on PC, the security requirements. MW4 is not included with Game Pass at launch. On PC, the main checks go beyond the graphics card and RAM specifications. TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are also among the access requirements. Therefore, even if you believe your computer’s hardware is sufficient, it is worth checking your system settings before making a purchase.
Standard, Vault, and Upgrade Do Not Serve the Same Need
| Standard | Base game | Players who want basic access to the game |
| Vault Edition | Base game and premium extras | Players who want additional Operators, weapons, and seasonal content |
| Vault Upgrade | Additional-content upgrade for an eligible Standard edition | Players who already own the digital base game |
Vault includes the Hostile Alliance and Special Forces Operator Packs, the Signature Weapon Collection, and one season of BlackCell. BlackCell provides content for one season. Activision grants Season 1 with preorders, while purchases or upgrades made after launch apply to the start of the first new season following the transaction. The upgrade does not include the base game on its own, and physical editions cannot be upgraded to Vault. When deciding on Vault, do not consider only the number of extras. The bundle may be worthwhile if you want to use Operator skins and keep up with seasonal content. If your priority is simply to start playing, you only need to clarify what the Standard edition includes. If you have already purchased the game, check your upgrade eligibility before selecting another base-game package.
How Do You Check TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot?
Activision requires both features to be enabled for MW4; if the requirements are not met, online modes cannot be accessed. Supported operating systems are Windows 10 22H2 or Windows 11.
Follow these steps to check:
- Press Win + R to open Run, then type tpm.msc. Check whether the TPM is ready and whether its specification version is 2.0.
- Open Run again and launch msinfo32. Review the BIOS Mode and Secure Boot State fields; UEFI mode and enabled Secure Boot are required.
- Then compare the hardware requirements: 8 GB minimum or 16 GB recommended RAM and 115 GB of SSD space are required at launch.
TPM relates to the system’s security hardware, while Secure Boot concerns loading trusted software during startup. Opening the status screen and changing BIOS settings are not the same operation. If you notice a missing requirement, consult the instructions provided by your computer or motherboard manufacturer instead of trying random settings.
ItemGold’s Take
For MW4, it makes sense to confirm technical compatibility first and then choose an edition. If you plan to purchase through Steam, you can compare the options in the ItemGold Steam Wallet Code category with the 25 USD – Global product. Confirm your account’s country and currency requirements; a wallet code does not change the game’s security requirements. The total balance you need also depends on the current price of your chosen edition.
FAQ
Can Modern Warfare 4 be played with Game Pass?
It is not included with Game Pass at launch. Activision has stated that the game must be purchased separately.
Does the Vault Upgrade include the base game?
No. It is an upgrade for an eligible digital Standard edition and does not provide access to the game on its own.
Is Secure Boot also required when TPM 2.0 is enabled?
Yes. Both requirements must be met, while requirements such as RAM and storage also apply separately.
How much free space is required on PC?
Steam specifies 115 GB of free SSD space for launch. Subsequent mandatory updates may require additional space.
Which season does the Vault BlackCell content apply to?
It applies to Season 1 for preorders; for purchases or upgrades made after launch, it applies from the start of the first new season following the transaction.
