Beta

The Hardware: Rivals Multiplayer Beta was a pre-release version of Hardware: Rivals that was exclusive to PlayStation Plus subscribers. It ran from September 30th to October 19th, 2015. There were some differences between the Beta and the full game.

Features
There were a very limited number of contents in the Beta: Two drivers (Tommy and Gwen), two vehicles (Wraith and Predator), three maps (Blister Lake, Quarry, and Lost Temple), and three game modes (Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, and Team Domination). There were also three special events available: 4 Wheels Only, Tanks Only, and High Speed Rail.

Differences
Gameplay-wise, it was almost exactly the same as the full game. There are some differences, however.

Aesthetics

 * The main menu was redesigned slightly to show current news and ongoing events.
 * The customization hub was revamped for better accessibility.
 * The match lobby was redesigned by changing the font color to white and removing the team badge.
 * The animation for the countdown at the start of a match was revamped.
 * The Quarry map was renamed to Jackson's Pit.
 * The Predator's default skin was changed to match with that of the Wraith.
 * The default skin of both default drivers was redesigned.

Weapons

 * Plasma now lingers on an enemy's vehicle for a short while and drains its health and armor gradually.
 * Plasma now fires slower and veers straight up into the air.

New Features

 * Two new vehicles (Nomad and Sledgehammer) were added.
 * A new map (Outpost 92) was added.
 * A new game mode (Team Elimination) was added.
 * Two new drivers (Frank and Kat) were added.
 * New skins for each vehicle and driver were added.
 * Each vehicle can now be customized with add-ons.
 * Salvage Points were introduced as the in-game currency, used to purchase vehicle add-ons.