Battlefield Studios has introduced Battlefield Labs, an innovative platform designed to foster collaboration between the gaming community and developers in shaping the future of the Battlefield franchise. Dive into the details of this exciting new initiative.
Battlefield Labs Unveiled, Promoting Collaboration Between Community and Developers
Players Will Have a More Direct Influence on Future Battlefield Games
On February 3, 2025, Battlefield Studios, in partnership with Electronics Art (EA), launched Battlefield Labs, a pioneering effort to involve players in the development of upcoming Battlefield games. This platform allows both players and developers to test and refine game concepts, mechanics, and features.
The announcement highlighted that the next Battlefield game is at a pivotal stage where community input could significantly enhance its development. Players will play a crucial role by testing new features and mechanics, ensuring the game meets the community's expectations.
Battlefield Studios is set to invite a select group of players from Europe and North America to participate in the initial phase of Battlefield Labs. While an exact release date hasn't been set, interested players can sign up now at this link.
Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn & Group GM for EA Studios Organization, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "This game has so much potential. To find that potential, with us being pre-alpha, now is the time to test the experiences our teams have been building for our upcoming launch. Battlefield Labs empowers our teams to do that."
Although not all players will be able to participate directly, Battlefield Studios has promised to keep the community updated throughout the testing process. This ensures that everyone can follow the progress and contribute to future Battlefield titles.
"Battlefield Studios is comprised of DICE, creators of the Battlefield franchise; Ripple Effect, a studio led by franchise veterans working on an all-new experience for the series; Motive, the developers of the critically acclaimed Star Wars Squadrons and Dead Space; and Criterion, known for world-class racing franchises and playing a key role in several Battlefield entries."
Features and Mechanics to Test in Battlefield Labs
Participants in Battlefield Labs will have the opportunity to test various aspects of the game, though not the entire experience. The studio described this as "different pieces of an unfinished puzzle," allowing time to incorporate player feedback into the final product.
Battlefield Studios outlined the initial focus areas: "We will start by testing the pillars of play, like core combat and destruction. Then transition to balance and feedback for our weapons, vehicles, and gadgets, ultimately leading to where all these pieces come together in our maps, modes, and squad play." Two existing modes, Conquest and Breakthrough, will also be part of the testing, with players encouraged to suggest improvements.
In Conquest mode, players engage in large-scale battles to capture Control Points (flags) from enemy teams. Each team has a set number of tickets, and the first to deplete their tickets loses. Tickets are lost when a team member respawns or when the enemy controls more flags.
Breakthrough mode assigns teams as attackers or defenders. Attackers aim to capture sectors on the map, while defenders try to block their progress. A similar ticket system is used, but attackers can regain tickets by securing a sector. Additionally, eliminating remaining enemy soldiers after securing a sector grants an extra three tickets.
Battlefield Studios is also keen on refining the class system for future games. Despite their pride in the current progress, they believe player feedback is essential. "We tirelessly playtest, but your feedback will supercharge our development as we strive to hit that perfect note between form, function, and feel."