Battlefield 6 Channels Bad Company 2's Destructive Spirit
DICE is signaling a clear return to the franchise's roots with Battlefield 6, drawing significant inspiration from the beloved Battlefield: Bad Company 2. This influence is reportedly palpable from the very first moments of gameplay, promising a nostalgic yet fresh experience for veterans and newcomers alike.
Jeremy Chubb, the multiplayer producer for Battlefield 6, openly stated, "When you look for genuine quality in our legacy, you find Bad Company 2." This sentiment underscores a deliberate effort to recapture the essence that made Bad Company 2 a fan favorite.
During a recent event in Los Angeles, a PC Gamer journalist spoke with Chubb after playing a match on the new map, "Liberation Peak." This map, a blend of mountains, villages, and winding roads, is designed to funnel players into intense choke points. The environment immediately brought to mind DICE's classic design philosophy from the 2010s-era Battlefield games: expansive areas paired with focused action, and crucially, an abundance of destructible elements.
Dynamic Destruction Returns
True to form, the destruction in Battlefield 6 is extensive. Walls, floors, and even entire buildings can be demolished, and these aren't just cosmetic effects. Similar to Bad Company 2, structures can be gradually damaged before eventually collapsing, potentially taking out anyone inside. Chubb emphasized this deliberate design choice: "That game [Battlefield: Bad Company 2] particularly stood out for its intricate and, I would say, intimately destructive nature. Knocking out a single wall, bringing down part of a building, or demolishing it completely – all of this worked comprehensively and became a crucial part of its character."
He added, "We understand that our previous game lacked this, and we really wanted to return to that experience." This acknowledgment from DICE highlights their commitment to bringing back a core gameplay mechanic that players have missed.
Vince Zampella, head of Battlefield 6 and Executive Vice President at Electronic Arts, previously noted that destruction is a vital component of the series. However, it's important to understand that players won't be able to simply flatten the entire map. Levels are crafted with balanced gameplay and performance in mind, meaning destruction in the upcoming shooter will be "controlled." This approach ensures map variability and keeps the gameplay engaging and balanced even in a partially destroyed state.
Upcoming Beta Tests and Release
Gamers will soon have the chance to experience Battlefield 6 for themselves. Open multiplayer beta tests are scheduled for August 9-10 and August 14-17. Those with access to the closed beta will get an even earlier look, from August 7-8.
The full release of the highly anticipated shooter is set for October 10. Battlefield 6 will launch on PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store), Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. It's worth noting that the game will not include Russian localization at launch.
This renewed focus on dynamic destruction, reminiscent of Bad Company 2, suggests DICE is listening to its community and aiming to deliver a Battlefield experience that feels both familiar and fresh. Players can look forward to more tactical and impactful engagements as they strategically leverage environmental destruction to gain an advantage on the battlefield.
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