Electronic Arts’ well-known military shooter franchise, Battlefield, has been largely absent since the release of Battlefield 2042 in 2021. The game faced significant criticism for its multiplayer ‘Specialist’ system and the omission of a single-player campaign. Now, nearly three years later, EA has provided new insights regarding the next installment in the series, confirming a return to a modern setting.
EA has shifted its focus back to modern warfare after exploring both near-future and historical settings in previous titles. A report by IGN revealed that the next Battlefield game is set to revert to a contemporary backdrop, illustrating the shift with the publication’s release of the first concept art from the upcoming title. However, EA has not disclosed details regarding the game’s official name or expected launch date.
Classes and 64-Player Maps to Return
Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn and Group General Manager for EA Studios Organization, emphasized a return to the franchise’s strengths while discussing the new game with IGN. Zampella cited the peak era of Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4, stating, “If you look back to the peak or the pinnacle of Battlefield, it’s that Battlefield 3… Battlefield 4 era where everything was modern. We have to get back to the core of what Battlefield is and do that amazingly well.”
He expressed a sense of nostalgia for those earlier titles, implying that they represented a golden age for the franchise, although he also acknowledged the significance of Battlefield 1942.
Zampella indicated that the scope of multiplayer maps will be narrowed in the upcoming installment. Battlefield 2042’s introduction of large 128-player maps drew backlash from fans who preferred the traditional 64-player experience. Additionally, the game’s controversial ‘Specialist’ system, which replaced classic classes with role-based characters, will also be eliminated in this new release. According to Zampella, these unpopular features are unlikely to return.
“We’re testing everything around what’s the most fun. When maps reach a certain size, they create a different play environment. So we are designing something more akin to previous Battlefields,” he explained. “I’d prefer well-designed, dense play spaces. Some of them are looking really good. I can’t wait for you to see some of them.”
Additionally, Zampella confirmed that traditional classes will make a comeback, stating, “Not everybody liked it, but you have to try new things. It didn’t work. The Specialist concept will not return. Classes are going back to being at the heart of Battlefield.”
Insight into Battlefield Concept Art
Official concept art for the next Battlefield game
Photo Credit: EA/ IGN
The development of the forthcoming Battlefield title involves multiple internal studios. Although no specific release timeline has been announced, Zampella noted that playtesting is occurring weekly, with a community program scheduled for launch in 2025. This suggests that a potential beta could lead to the game’s release that same year.
While the modern setting, the return of 64-player maps, and classic classes have been confirmed, EA has yet to provide specific gameplay details. The newly revealed concept art alludes to possibilities like aerial and naval combat, along with a coastal map.
This art depicts a densely populated European coastal city in distress, potentially influenced by natural or man-made disasters. The background suggests wildfires or a volcanic eruption, hinting that environmental destruction will play a major role in the game, continuing a hallmark tradition of the franchise.
