MLB The Show 22: How to play early, Game Pass bundle, New Zealand time zone trick

MLB The Show 22 has almost arrived via Early Access, but many players are still wondering exactly how quickly they can get in on the action.

Between the new Xbox Game Pass Bundle and the classic New Zealand time zone trick, we've got details on the ways you'll actually be able to play MLB The Show 22 early.

How to play MLB The Show 22 early

If you're looking for the most reliable method of playing MLB The Show 22 early, it'll be through their official Early Access reward.

By placing a pre order for the digital versions of either the MVP Edition or Digital Deluxe Edition of MLB The Show 22, you receive four days of Early Access.

It's not a cheap option, but you'll also get the full game on both current and next gen consoles in addition to some in-game bonuses.

We've got more details on the various MLB The Show 22 editions here if you're still trying to decide which one is right for you.

Xbox Game Pass offers Early Access Bundle

If you're one of the many Xbox Game Pass subscribers looking forward to playing MLB The Show 22, you're likely facing a dilemma.

While MLB The Show 22 will be available for free to all Xbox Game Pass subscribers on the worldwide release date of April 5, 2022, that leaves Early Access out of the picture.

If you couldn't quite justify the full $85 or more for the MVP or Digital Deluxe Edition, then you're in luck as a discounted Xbox Game Pass Early Access Bundle has been announced.

We've got more details here on how that bundle works and all the rewards that come with it.

Can you use the New Zealand time zone trick?

Fans who love to get into their games as soon as possible are often aware of a classic trick aimed at unlocking games early.

New Zealand has one of the earliest time zones on the planet, compared to others, and as a result players have tried changing their consoles to New Zealand time in order to play games early.

Unfortunately, that won't be an option with MLB The Show 22, as they're using a simultaneous worldwide release time rather than basing the game unlock on local time.

Changing your console time zone would only change the console's visible time and not actually unlock the game any earlier, so it's something we don't recommend for MLB The Show 22.