EA intensifies playtesting phase for next Battlefield installment

Studio increases community feedback efforts as development advances on the upcoming shooter sequel.

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EA intensifies playtesting phase for next Battlefield installment

Electronic Arts has significantly expanded its playtesting operations for the upcoming Battlefield title, with industry sources indicating major revelations are on the horizon. The new installment, unofficially dubbed Battlefield 6 by the community, was first announced by EA in September 2023. The publisher has since implemented an extensive testing program to ensure a stronger launch than its predecessors.

The Battlefield series, alongside Call of Duty, stands as one of gaming’s premier first-person shooter franchises. However, the 2021 release of Battlefield 2042 marked a challenging chapter for EA, drawing widespread criticism from players. The game faced backlash for removing established features, technical issues, and overall performance problems. While continuous updates have gradually improved its Steam reception to “mixed,” EA appears determined to prevent similar challenges with its next release.

Next Battlefield entry showcases unprecedented community involvement

With 2025 emerging as a pivotal year for the franchise, recent insights from Insider Gaming’s Tom Henderson suggest EA is accelerating its testing phase while preparing several significant announcements. While specific details remain under wraps, the studio has already shared concept art, potentially hinting at more substantial reveals ahead.

Henderson’s January 24 update highlights an unprecedented scale of external player involvement in testing, surpassing previous titles in both frequency and data collection. This extensive feedback gathering represents the most comprehensive testing phase in the series’ history, likely influenced by EA’s determination to restore the franchise’s reputation established by acclaimed entries like Battlefield: Bad Company 2 and Battlefield 3.

EA’s commitment to the project was emphasized in August 2024, when CEO Andrew Wilson described the upcoming title as a top priority and “one of the most ambitious projects in [EA’s] history.” While the official unveiling timeline remains unknown, the increased testing activity suggests players may soon receive more concrete details about the next chapter in the Battlefield saga.