Following the open beta for Battlefield 6, DICE has detailed its key takeaways and the adjustments it's implementing.
The Battlefield team noted "tens of thousands coordinating on Discord to play together, over 600,000 hours of streams, and more than 30 million hours watched." They stated, "We'd like to reflect on the recent Open Beta to share our primary insights and the in-game changes we're making, informed by your feedback and gameplay data." These updates cover weapon balancing, movement, map design, game modes, player counts, and playlist choices.
One of the most frequent player critiques focused on movement mechanics, specifically movement speed and the transition from a slide into a jump. DICE confirms it is now "fine-tuning" this "to deliver a more balanced and classic Battlefield feel."
"The momentum, particularly horizontal speed, transferred from a slide into a jump has been decreased," the team explained. "Consecutive jumps now carry a greater penalty, reducing jump height when spammed. Firing your weapon while jumping or sliding will also result in higher inaccuracy. These adjustments aim to make sliding and jumping more situational tactical choices, rather than the optimal moves in firefights. This helps create a gameplay pace that rewards skilled movement without becoming excessively fast or erratic.
"Parachute physics have been recalibrated as well, with a slower initial acceleration upon deployment for more controlled aerial maneuvers."
The team also emphasized that it received "strong feedback" regarding larger-scale maps. They clarified that while the Open Beta deliberately showcased smaller, faster-paced maps, "larger-scale maps are already part of our core offering, designed to deliver intense action and create unique, memorable moments for all players." As the closed Battlefield Labs tests continue—available to select players under NDA—two new multiplayer maps will be introduced: one located in Mirak Valley, and a remake of the beloved Battlefield 3 map, Operation Firestorm. These maps "will feature the full range of vehicles, similar to Liberation Peak, within a more expansive combat environment." You might recall that details on Mirak Valley surfaced in a leak earlier this week.
Naturally, the studio is also evaluating feedback on game modes. DICE recently adjusted the Rush mode after receiving criticism from the community, stating, "The discussion we saw wasn't solely about player count, but also about map dynamics and the tactical experience they provide."
For context, Rush was originally introduced as Gold Rush in Bad Company, with matches usually featuring 12v12 to 16v16 players.
"We've tested larger player counts over the years, including 64 and even 128-player versions. While these created some intensely fast-paced moments, they also introduced problems: defenses became overwhelming, frontlines stagnated, and too many matches ended in the first sector," DICE elaborated. "Rush is particularly sensitive to higher player counts because of its tactical and strategic nature; when a player attempts to arm an M-COM with over 20 defenders, the intended gameplay experience diminishes. Based on feedback from recent titles, we are reducing the default player count for Rush to improve combat flow and restore the methodical, tactical gameplay that defines the mode."
Players who prefer a "large-scale" Rush experience will still be able to "experiment" with various player counts via the Portal from launch. "Finding the right balance is a continuous process as players learn the map sizes, lanes, and combat areas," the team added. "Currently, we've determined that 8v8 offers a reliable foundation for smaller, fast-paced modes like Team Deathmatch, Squad Deathmatch, Domination, and King of the Hill."
"Using the data collected during the Open Beta, we will be rolling out further in-game adjustments in upcoming Battlefield Labs events. Keep an eye out for progress reports and future chances to participate," the team concluded. "Once again, thank you for being part of the Battlefield 6 Open Beta. Your input and involvement made it a tremendous success."
Our early impressions have been very positive, as noted in our ongoing Battlefield 6 review: "We are still in the beta phase, but I'm already thoroughly enjoying Battlefield 6's multiplayer. The action is exceptional, with a cinematic quality enhanced by the constantly falling debris, which is not just visual but offers legitimate strategic advantages through the environmental destruction.
"In its current beta state, Battlefield 6 could be the most entertaining shooter I've played this year."
Remember, from now until October 7—Battlefield 6's launch date—EA has scheduled a "wave of content" for Battlefield 2042. This includes a free new pass "celebrating Battlefield's legacy," new hardware, and a reimagined version of the fan-favorite Iwo Jima map. By progressing through the 'Road to Battlefield 6' pass, you can earn 50 "exclusive cross-rewards," 20 of which are for Battlefield 6 and will be available on launch day.
