## Battlefield: A Return to the Core
Electronic Arts has recently provided some exciting details about the next installment in the Battlefield series. One of the most significant changes is the shift back to a modern-day setting, departing from the historical and futuristic themes of previous titles. While the exact location remains uncertain, the intention is clear: EA aims to bring the series back to its roots, reminiscent of the highly successful Battlefield 3 and 4 era. In an interview with IGN, Respawn CEO Vince Zampella, who is also the group GM for EA Studios, expressed his enthusiasm for this approach, stating that Battlefield 3 and 4 represent the pinnacle of the franchise.
## The Changes Coming to Battlefield
In addition to the change in setting, Battlefield will undergo several other notable alterations. One of the key adjustments is a reduction in player count, with maps returning to 64 players instead of the 128-player count in Battlefield 2042. Zampella explains that the development team, composed of studios within DICE, Motive, Ripple Effect, and Criterion, is focused on creating dense, well-designed play spaces that prioritize fun and playability. This shift is a departure from the larger scale battles seen in Battlefield 2042.
Another change is the reintroduction of classes instead of specialists. While Zampella acknowledges the previous experimentation with specialists, he admits that it didn’t resonate with everyone. The goal for the next Battlefield is to ensure a strong initial launch by refining the gameplay experience. To regain the trust of the community, EA plans to launch a community program next year.
## Building a Battlefield Universe
The Battlefield franchise seems to be expanding beyond a single game. Battlefield general manager Byron Beede previously mentioned that EA is working on building a Battlefield universe that encompasses connected multiplayer experiences and single-player campaigns. This hints at a broader vision for the franchise, potentially offering players a more immersive and interconnected experience.
## EA’s Strategic Shift
It’s worth noting that Electronic Arts has undergone significant changes in recent years. In February, the studio faced layoffs, resulting in 670 employees losing their jobs. The company also canceled an untitled Star Wars first-person shooter game, signaling a shift away from licensed intellectual properties to focus on in-house franchises like Battlefield. These changes demonstrate EA’s commitment to investing in their own original titles and strengthening their core franchises.
## Conclusion
The upcoming Battlefield game promises a return to the series’ core values, embracing a modern-day setting reminiscent of the highly acclaimed Battlefield 3 and 4. With changes in player count, gameplay mechanics, and the introduction of a community program, EA aims to deliver a polished and enjoyable experience for both new and returning players. Furthermore, the notion of building a Battlefield universe suggests an exciting future for the franchise, where players can expect interconnected multiplayer experiences and engaging single-player campaigns. As EA continues to evolve and invest in its original franchises, Battlefield fans can eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this iconic series.