EA Unveils Battlefield Labs and Battlefield Studios: A Collaborative Approach to the Next Battlefield Game
EA has offered a first look at its upcoming Battlefield title, alongside details about its player testing program, "Battlefield Labs," and the newly formed "Battlefield Studios." This collaborative effort unites four studios to revitalize the franchise.
A short pre-alpha gameplay video accompanied the announcement, showcasing early development.
Battlefield Studios comprises DICE (Stockholm, focusing on multiplayer), Motive (single-player and multiplayer maps), Ripple Effect (player acquisition), and Criterion (single-player campaign). This marks Criterion's shift away from the Need for Speed franchise.
The new Battlefield marks a return to a traditional, linear single-player campaign, a departure from the solely multiplayer focus of Battlefield 2042.
EA is entering a crucial development phase and seeks player feedback via 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). Testing will initially involve a few thousand players in Europe and North America, expanding to tens of thousands later.
This ambitious project follows the closure of Ridgeline Games, a studio previously working on a standalone single-player Battlefield game.
Previously revealed concept art and details confirm a return to a modern setting, incorporating ship-to-ship and helicopter combat, and natural disaster elements. Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn and Group GM for EA Studios Organization, cited Battlefield 3 and 4 as inspiration, aiming to recapture the core elements that defined the franchise's peak.
The shift back to a modern setting addresses criticisms of Battlefield 2042, particularly the unpopular Specialist system and large 128-player maps. The new game will revert to 64-player maps and eliminate Specialists.
EA CEO Andrew Wilson described the project as one of EA's most ambitious, reflecting the significant investment and collaborative effort. Zampella highlighted the goal of regaining player trust while expanding the Battlefield universe to attract a broader audience.
EA has yet to announce a release date, platforms, or official title for the new Battlefield.
