EA Says Next Battlefield Is 'Expected' Fiscal Year 2026

EA's Next Battlefield Game: A Return to Form

Electronic Arts (EA) has announced that the next installment in the Battlefield franchise is slated for release sometime between April 2025 and March 2026, falling within their fiscal year 2026. This announcement came alongside the unveiling of Battlefield Labs, a new player-testing initiative designed to gather crucial feedback during the development process.

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Battlefield Labs will allow EA to test various aspects of the game, from core combat mechanics and destruction to weapon balance, vehicle performance, and squad gameplay. Key game modes like Conquest and Breakthrough will also undergo rigorous testing. Furthermore, the initiative will explore innovative ideas and refine existing Battlefield pillars, such as the class system. Participation requires signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

Four studios are collaborating on this ambitious project under the banner of Battlefield Studios: DICE (multiplayer development), Motive (single-player missions and multiplayer maps), Ripple Effect (new player acquisition), and Criterion (single-player campaign). This collaborative effort marks a significant investment from EA, aiming to recapture the essence of the classic Battlefield experience.

The new Battlefield will feature a return to a modern setting, drawing inspiration from the highly-regarded Battlefield 3 and 4 eras. This decision represents a course correction after the mixed reception of Battlefield 2042, addressing criticisms regarding Specialists and large-scale maps. The upcoming title will revert to 64-player maps and eliminate the Specialist system.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson has described the project as one of EA's most ambitious undertakings. Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn and Group GM for EA Studios Organization, emphasized the importance of regaining the trust of core Battlefield players while also expanding the franchise's appeal to a wider audience.

While EA remains tight-lipped on specific launch platforms and the game's official title, the commitment to player feedback and the return to core gameplay elements suggest a renewed focus on delivering a satisfying Battlefield experience. The future of the Battlefield franchise appears to be in capable hands, and the anticipation for its release is palpable.