Electronic Arts (EA) has launched Battlefield Labs, a new playtesting initiative that allows players to experience the next Battlefield game in its pre-alpha stage. While the game remains unnamed and lacks a release date, signups for Battlefield Labs are now live, marking an exciting opportunity for fans to shape the future of the franchise.
A Nostalgic First Look
EA surprised fans by showcasing a brief 10-second pre-alpha gameplay clip, which instantly evokes memories of Battlefield 3. The footage features soldiers navigating a dusty urban environment, modern military aesthetics, and—most notably—no specialists in sight. This aligns with Battlefield boss Vince Zampella’s recent statement that the next installment will take inspiration from Battlefield 3 and 4, widely regarded as the series’ peak.
What to Expect from Battlefield Labs
Battlefield Labs participants will test the core aspects of the game, including combat, destruction, vehicles, and weapons. Classic modes like Breakthrough and Rush are making a return, along with new, undisclosed concepts. One of the standout details from the teaser is the destruction quality, particularly an RPG explosion with a realistic, crumbly effect—potentially signaling a major improvement in environmental destruction.
The Future of Battlefield: A Multi-Studio Effort
EA is also rebranding its development structure under the name Battlefield Studios, which comprises four teams:
- DICE – Focused on multiplayer and core gameplay mechanics.
- Criterion – Leading the development of the single-player campaign.
- Motive – Working on multiplayer maps and additional single-player missions.
- Ripple Effect – Developing an unspecified "new experience," which could be a battle royale or an open-world mode.
Unlike Activision’s Call of Duty model, where studios are solely dedicated to the franchise, EA confirmed that Criterion will continue working on Need for Speed, while Motive will also focus on an upcoming Iron Man game.
EA’s Challenge: Restoring Trust
While EA is going all-in on the future of Battlefield, the franchise has faced setbacks, particularly with Battlefield 2042’s troubled launch. Although the Battlefield Labs initiative promises a return to form, the true test will be in execution. Unfortunately, the playtests will be under strict NDA, meaning the public won’t see firsthand impressions until EA is ready to showcase more.
For now, Battlefield fans can only wait and hope that this new direction truly delivers on its promise to bring Battlefield back to its former glory.
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