Next DBD update release date estimate and PTB details

As we look ahead to the next DBD update, there are a few things to keep in mind. There are always constant leaks within the community, and while some are very enticing, they shouldn't always be believed. With that in mind, we do know some details about what's coming up in Dead by Daylight, including when the next DBD PTB takes place.

Here, I'm going to tell you when you can participate in the next DBD PTB, how to do so, and what we know about the next DBD update.

Next DBD update release date estimate

The next DBD update arrives on April 28, 2026 at 8AM PDT, 11am EDT, 4PM BST. However, this is not a new chapter launch.

This next update instead features a new iteration of the popular DBD 2v8 mode, one that is available to test during the upcoming PTB, on which I have more details below. We don't yet know when the next Dead By Daylight Chapter will release, but my estimate would be Tuesday, June 23, 2026, based on the previous release dates schedule. This could be the release of the new Chorus of Sin Chapter, which was voted for by fans.

Next DBD PTB release date

The next DBD PTB takes place between Tuesday, April 7, and Monday, April 13, 2026. We expect the update to go live at around 8AM PDT, 11AM EDT, 5pm BST based on the release time of previous updates.

From what we know so far, this PTB is likely to be a test ground for the next 2v8 event, which I think will include new killer Henry Creel for the first time. Looking at the latest Dead By Daylight roadmap, which you can see below, the only thing arriving in the game three weeks after the PTB - or at least the only thing that has been announced - is 2v8 mode. Since a new update usually arrives three weeks after its own PTB, this leads me to believe this is the focus of the upcoming PTB, but I'll update this guide as and when I learn more.

How to join the DBD PTB

To take part in the DBD PTB, you must own the game on Steam. Unfortunately, the test builds are not available on any other platform. To access the PTB on Steam, follow these steps:

• Only when the PTB is live, fully close and relaunch Steam.
• Locate and right-click on Dead by Daylight in your Library.
• Go to Properties, and then select the Game Versions and Betas tab.
• If the PTB is live, you'll see the Public-Test-Build branch in the dropdown.
• Select the PTB branch and update Dead by Daylight.
• Once the update completes, launch the game, and you'll be in the PTB version.

Once the PTB ends, you will need to update the game again to return to the main version. Similarly, if you want to return to the main game before the end of the PTB, follow the steps above again, only this time select Default Public Version from the drop-down list.

We've got other guides to keep you up to date with the latest going ons in DBD, including the annual DBD Blood Moon event, and you should also check out our list of the latest DBD codes for free cosmetic items and Bloodpoints.

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