Battlefield Labs Announced: Test the Future of Battlefield Today
Introduction
The highly anticipated next installment of the Battlefield franchise is still shrouded in mystery, but EA is giving players a chance to shape its development through Battlefield Labs. This playtesting initiative will provide early access to a pre-alpha version of the game, allowing participants to provide feedback and influence the final product.
Battlefield Labs Playtest
Signups for Battlefield Labs are now open, and the first participants will get to play a pre-alpha build of the next Battlefield in the coming weeks and months. This build will focus on testing the core elements of the franchise, including combat, destruction, vehicles, and weapons, in familiar modes like Breakthrough and Rush. The playtest will also introduce "new concepts" that have not yet been revealed.
A Glimpse of Gameplay
The Battlefield Labs reveal video offers a brief glimpse of pre-alpha gameplay, showcasing a dusty urban environment reminiscent of Battlefield 3. The video also hints at significant improvements to destruction physics, with a realistic and impactful RPG explosion.
Battlefield Studios
EA has also introduced a new brand, Battlefield Studios, which represents the four studios collaborating on the development of the series: DICE, EA Motive, Criterion, and Ripple Effect. Each studio will contribute to different aspects of the game, with DICE focusing on multiplayer, Criterion on the singleplayer campaign, Motive on multiplayer maps and singleplayer missions, and Ripple Effect working on an unspecified "new experience."
Transparency and Feedback
Unlike similar playtests, Battlefield Labs participants will be under strict NDA, meaning they cannot share gameplay footage or details publicly. EA emphasizes that this transparency and feedback from the community will play a crucial role in shaping the final game.
Conclusion
Battlefield Labs is an exciting opportunity for players to actively participate in the development of the next Battlefield game. With its focus on core elements, a glimpse of promising gameplay, and a collaborative approach from multiple studios, the future of Battlefield appears to be in good hands.