Help us get the next update to Arma 3 in the best possible shape in the weeks before release!
Ahead of main branch updates (usually once per 4 to 6 weeks), we stage the build on a public Release Candidate (RC) Steam branch for testing. This testing period typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Its goals are as follows:
- To truly test the final build publicly. While Dev-Branch allows anyone to try day-to-day changes, that build (configuration) is not 100% identical to main branch, and may contain longer-term experimental features and content.
- To discover potential issues in the broad and varied player base. This is complementary to our in-house testing by the various QA teams.
- To allow mod teams and other custom content creators to prepare for changes and adapt their works if necessary.
- To stress test the multiplayer environment (this is where most of the issues appear, especially at high player counts and long server up times).
Your feedback is important to securing a solid update release, and we appreciate your assistance greatly!
Caution
- Even the RC-Branch may still contain issues that we look to address during the RC period.
- Multiplayer is not normally compatible with main branch. You may not be able to play on main branch servers, thus restricting you to a smaller range of RC servers.
- Mods or other custom content may not yet be compatible with the RC.
- Steam client is limited to one branch being installed at a time, so switching branches involves re-downloading data (see a potential work-around below).
- Daily updates may occur until the full release, so consider your bandwidth.
Usage
Opt into the RC-Branch in your Steam client:
- Right-click on Arma 3.
- Select Properties.
- Access the BETAS tab.
- Enter the access code (see the box on the right when available).
- Press CHECK CODE.
- Select rc - Release Candidate Build from the drop-down list.
- Let the game update itself to the RC build.
- To ensure a valid build, consider verifying the integrity of the local game cache using Steam client.
Note: RC-Branch is also available for our Arma 3 Server application on Steam.
You can use our Game Updater tool to install multiple branches on your PC, including RC-Branch. It can be found in the free Arma 3 Tools suite on Steam.
Reports
- The best place to report issues is our Feedback Tracker (how to guide).
- Please mark your exact version number and usage of RC-Branch clearly.
- Please also try to replicate the issue in the unmodded build.
- Please prioritize reports on issues new to the RC build (not present in the actual main branch).
- The RC build can also be discussed in this forums discussion thread.
Thank you kindly for your help with making Arma 3 a better game!