Battlefield Unveils Gameplay Preview via Battlefield Labs

EA Unveils Battlefield Labs and Battlefield Studios: A Return to Form?

EA has offered the first official look at its upcoming Battlefield game, simultaneously announcing Battlefield Labs, a player testing initiative, and Battlefield Studios, the collective of four studios developing the title. A short pre-alpha gameplay video accompanied the announcement.

Battlefield Studios unites DICE (Stockholm, focusing on multiplayer), Motive (single-player and multiplayer maps), Ripple Effect (player acquisition), and Criterion (single-player campaign). This marks a return to a traditional linear single-player campaign after Battlefield 2042's multiplayer-only approach.

The development is in a "critical" phase, prompting EA to seek player feedback via Battlefield Labs. This initiative will test various aspects, from core combat and destruction to weapon balance and map design, including core modes like Conquest and Breakthrough. The testing will also explore new ideas and refinements to the class system. Participation requires signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

This ambitious project follows the closure of Ridgeline Games, a studio previously working on a standalone single-player Battlefield title. The new game returns to a modern setting, incorporating elements hinted at in concept art, such as ship-to-ship combat, helicopter battles, and natural disasters. Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn and Group GM for EA Studios Organization, cited Battlefield 3 and 4 as inspirations, aiming for a return to the series' core strengths while expanding its reach.

The game aims to address the criticisms leveled at Battlefield 2042, particularly its Specialists system and large-scale maps. The new title will feature 64-player maps and abandon the Specialist system.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson described the project as "one of the most ambitious projects in [EA's] history," reflecting the significant investment and commitment from multiple studios. The pressure is high to recapture the success of previous iterations. A release date, platforms, and official title remain unannounced.