EA Unveils Battlefield Labs and Battlefield Studios for the Next Battlefield Game
EA has offered a first 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 new title. The video is part of a recruitment drive for playtesters.
Battlefield Studios unites four EA studios: DICE (Stockholm), Motive, Ripple Effect, and Criterion. Each studio has a specific role in development:
- DICE (Sweden): Multiplayer development.
- Motive: Single-player missions and multiplayer maps.
- Ripple Effect: Attracting new players to the franchise.
- Criterion: Single-player campaign.
The new Battlefield marks a return to traditional linear single-player campaigns, a departure from the multiplayer-only Battlefield 2042.
EA emphasizes that development is in a crucial phase, and player feedback is vital for prioritizing improvements before release. Battlefield Labs will test various aspects of the game, though not everything will be fully realized. Participants will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).
Initially, a few thousand players in Europe and North America will be invited. This will expand to tens of thousands, with broader geographic support later.
It's noteworthy that while EA is heavily investing in this Battlefield title with four studios, Ridgeline Games, a studio working on a standalone single-player Battlefield game, was shut down last year.
September's reveal confirmed a return to a modern setting, after previous installments in World War I, World War II, and the near future. Concept art hinted at naval and aerial combat, and natural disaster elements. Vince Zampella cited Battlefield 3 and 4 as inspirations, aiming to recapture the series' core appeal while expanding its reach.
The shift to a modern setting addresses criticisms of Battlefield 2042, particularly the Specialists system and large-scale maps. The new game will feature 64-player maps and abandon the Specialist system.
The new Battlefield is a high-stakes project for EA, described by CEO Andrew Wilson as one of the company's most ambitious undertakings. The Battlefield Studios tagline, "We’re all in on Battlefield," reflects this commitment. Zampella highlighted the need to regain the trust of core fans while attracting new players.
EA has yet to announce a release date, platforms, or the game's official title.
