Battlefield Studios, in collaboration with Electronics Art (EA), has introduced an innovative platform named Battlefield Labs. This initiative, unveiled on February 3, 2025, aims to foster a closer relationship between the gaming community and developers in crafting the future of the Battlefield series. Through Battlefield Labs, players are invited to test and provide feedback on game concepts, mechanics, and features, directly influencing the development of upcoming titles.
The announcement highlights that the next Battlefield game is at a pivotal stage where community input can significantly shape its direction. Players from Europe and North America are encouraged to participate in the initial phase of Battlefield Labs, with sign-ups available at this link. Although an exact release date remains undisclosed, the excitement around this community-driven approach is palpable.
Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn & Group GM for EA Studios Organization, emphasized the importance of this phase, stating, "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."
While participation in Battlefield Labs is limited, Battlefield Studios has promised to keep the broader community informed through regular updates. This ensures that even those not directly involved in testing can follow the progress and future developments of the game. The studio also plans to extend this collaborative model to future Battlefield titles, ensuring a continuous loop of community engagement.
Battlefield Studios comprises several renowned teams, including DICE, the original creators of the Battlefield franchise; Ripple Effect, a studio focused on an innovative new experience within the series; Motive, developers of the critically acclaimed Star Wars Squadrons and Dead Space; and Criterion, known for their work on racing franchises and contributions to multiple Battlefield games.
Features and Mechanics to Test in Battlefield Labs
Participants in Battlefield Labs will have the opportunity to test various components of the game, described as "different pieces of an unfinished puzzle." This approach allows the studio to integrate player feedback into the final product effectively. The initial focus will be on the fundamental elements of gameplay, such as core combat and destruction mechanics. Following this, the testing will shift to balancing and refining weapons, vehicles, and gadgets, culminating in the integration of these elements within maps, modes, and squad play.
Two existing game modes, Conquest and Breakthrough, will also be part of the testing phase, where players can explore new ideas to enhance these modes. In Conquest mode, players engage in large-scale battles to capture and hold Control Points (flags), with the objective of depleting the opposing team's tickets. Tickets are lost when players respawn or when the enemy holds more flags.
Breakthrough mode involves teams designated as attackers or defenders, with attackers tasked with capturing sectors while defenders aim to halt their advance. Similar to Conquest, a ticket system is used, but attackers can replenish their tickets by securing a sector. Additionally, eliminating remaining enemy soldiers after securing a sector grants extra tickets.
Battlefield Studios is also keen on refining the class system in future Battlefield games. Despite the progress made so far, the team values player feedback as a crucial element in achieving the perfect balance between form, function, and feel. "We tirelessly playtest, but your feedback will supercharge our development as we strive to hit that perfect note," they stated.
