Battlefield Studios has launched Battlefield Labs, an innovative platform designed to foster collaboration between the gaming community and developers in shaping future Battlefield games. Dive into the details of this exciting new initiative.
Battlefield Labs Unveiled: Fostering Collaboration Between Community and Developers
On February 3, 2025, Battlefield Studios, in partnership with Electronics Art (EA), introduced Battlefield Labs, a groundbreaking community collaboration project aimed at co-developing future Battlefield titles. This initiative allows players and developers to test and refine game concepts, mechanics, and features before they hit the market.
According to the announcement, the upcoming Battlefield game is entering a crucial development phase that will greatly benefit from community input. Players will be at the forefront, actively testing new features and mechanics.
Battlefield Studios plans 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 individuals can sign up now at this link.
Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn & Group GM for EA Studios Organization, emphasized the potential of the game, 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."
Even though not everyone can join this exclusive collaboration, Battlefield Studios assures that the community will receive regular updates throughout the testing phase. This ensures that all fans can stay informed and engaged with the development process. The studio also plans to extend this collaborative approach 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 elements of the game, though not every aspect will be accessible. Players will engage with "different pieces of an unfinished puzzle," allowing the studio ample time to incorporate feedback into the final product. Battlefield Studios has outlined the key mechanics and features that will be tested, as reported in a recent Battlefield news article.
"We will start by testing the pillars of play, like core combat and destruction," explained Battlefield Studios. "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 included, providing a platform for players to explore new ideas and enhancements.
In Conquest mode, players engage in large-scale battles to capture Control Points (flags) from enemy teams. Each team starts with a set number of tickets, and the first team to deplete their tickets loses. Tickets can be 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 strive to block their progress. Similar to Conquest, a ticket system is used, but attackers can replenish their tickets by securing a sector. Additionally, any remaining enemy soldiers after a sector is secured can be eliminated for an extra three tickets.
Battlefield Studios is also keen on refining the class system for future Battlefield games. While proud of the game's current progress, the team values player feedback highly. "We tirelessly playtest, but your feedback will supercharge our development as we strive to hit that perfect note between form, function, and feel."
