First Official Look at New Battlefield Gameplay as EA Reveals 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, alongside details about its player testing program, Battlefield Labs, and the newly formed Battlefield Studios.

A short pre-alpha gameplay video accompanies the announcement, showcasing the progress of the game. The video reveals the collaborative effort of four studios under the Battlefield Studios banner: DICE (Stockholm), Motive, Ripple Effect, and Criterion.

The division of labor is as follows: DICE handles multiplayer development; Motive contributes to single-player missions and multiplayer maps; Ripple Effect focuses on attracting new players; and Criterion is responsible for the single-player campaign. This marks a return to a traditional linear single-player campaign after the multiplayer-only Battlefield 2042.

EA emphasizes that Battlefield Studios is entering a critical development phase and seeks player feedback through Battlefield Labs. This program will test various aspects of the game, from core combat and destruction to weapon balance and map design. Participation requires signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

EA states that initial testing will involve a few thousand players in Europe and North America, expanding to tens of thousands later and encompassing additional regions. The company acknowledges the closure of Ridgeline Games, a studio previously working on a standalone single-player Battlefield title.

The new Battlefield returns to a modern setting, as confirmed by EA and concept art showcasing ship-to-ship and helicopter combat, alongside natural disasters. Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn and Group GM for EA Studios Organization, cited Battlefield 3 and 4 as inspiration, aiming to recapture the series' core appeal while expanding its reach. The game will feature 64 players per map and abandon the Specialist system from Battlefield 2042.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson describes the project as one of EA's most ambitious, reflecting the significant investment and collaborative effort. Zampella highlights the goal of regaining the trust of core Battlefield players while attracting new audiences through diverse gameplay experiences within the Battlefield universe.

A release date, platforms, and official title remain unannounced.