Your Guide to Fallout 76’s Public Test Servers

Can’t wait to see what’s around the corner in Fallout 76?

Join the game’s Public Test Server to get an early look at upcoming features, in-game events and even provide feedback. So, grab your Pip-Boy, load into the PTS, and let us know what works, what doesn’t and what’s ready to debut in the bustling world of Fallout 76’s Appalachia!

What is the Public Test Server?

The Public Test Server (PTS) is a separate build of Fallout 76 available to Steam PC players. This build features game updates deployed ahead of their official release, creating a development sandbox for upcoming features, systems, tweaks and content still in the tuning and polish stages of development.

When you join the PTS, you’re not just playing – you’re testing. New events, weapons, balance changes, quality-of-life updates and even seasonal content such as new Public Events go through the PTS, offering players a first look at Fallout 76’s latest updates!

Note: The PTS is updated independently of the live game and progress made within it (characters, rewards or C.A.M.P.s) does not carry over to the main servers. Additionally, Seasons and Scoreboard are omitted from the PTS alongside Atomic Shop content. Fallout 76’s PTS is available in English only.

What is the Public Test Server’s purpose?

Fallout 76’s PTS isn’t just about ironing out bugs - it’s about building Fallout 76 with the community! Bethesda Game Studios uses the Public Test Server to open the (Vault) door between developers and the players; here’s what makes it important:

Player-Driven Feedback
Bethesda Game Studios relies on real-time input from players to tweak content, rebalance gameplay and catch bugs that may not appear in QA testing environments. From quest pacing to perk adjustments, player voices carry weight.

Transparent Development
The PTS gives players a sneak peek behind the curtain, showing the work in progress before it becomes part of the live world.

A Living Partnership
The wasteland isn’t static and neither is Fallout 76. The PTS is a tool that allows the Fallout 76 community to grow alongside the developers and shape Appalachia’s future together.

How do I access the Public Test Server?

Fallout 76’s PTS is currently available only to Steam PC players. Open the Steam application and log into the account where you own Fallout 76. In your Library, “Fallout 76 Public Test Server” should appear automatically in your Steam Library if you own Fallout 76. Install the PTS build like any other game, launch from Steam and begin playing!

Note: Your live-game characters are usually copied over to the PTS from a recent point, but progress and unlocks made in PTS will not transfer back to the live servers.

How do I provide feedback?

Bethesda Game Studios value community input when fine-tuning updates, and there are multiple ways to submit your feedback! Whether it’s a bug, balance issue, visual glitch or gameplay suggestion, your input is essential:

Bethesda Game Studios Discord
The official Bethesda Discord Server includes dedicated feedback channels during active PTS cycles and is the primary option for providing feedback.

To join:

• Visit discord.gg/bethesdastudios
• Accept the rules and select the Fallout 76 role
• Make sure to add the PTS role to see the hidden channels
• You’ll unlock PTS channels where you can post observations, screenshots and suggestions
• Devs and community managers regularly monitor these channels
  Note: The official Bethesda Discord Server is English only.

Community Forums & Social Channels
While less direct, you can always tag our official Fallout social media accounts or reply to PTS announcement posts to leave feedback.

Where can I learn more?

Rather than being available 24/7, PTS access is released in the weeks or months before a major update – stay on top of the latest updates by checking out the official Fallout website, as well as our Discord server and on social media.