Battlefield 6: Back to its roots with innovations that redefine combat
The development team delves into the design of its next installment, promising a modern and tactical experience.
Battlefield Studios is preparing for the launch of Battlefield 6, an installment that seeks to recapture the rawness and military realism that defined iconic titles such as Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4. In a conversation we had with Alexia Christofi, Producer at DICE, and David Sirland, Senior Producer at Battlefield Studios during the presentation of this latest installment in Los Angeles, California, they gave us an in-depth look at how this new chapter will differ from its predecessors, maintaining the essence of the series while introducing significant improvements in gameplay, destruction and team interaction.
A return to modern combat?
Sirland emphasized that while Battlefield 6 draws on the modern military setting of its predecessors, the team is looking to deliver a “near-future” or “contemporary” experience with a more updated take on combat. This translates into a renewed focus on core game modes and maps, which will now feature vehicles that appear directly on the ground, rather than being summoned. In addition, not all game modes will be available on every map, ensuring consistency and an experience more tailored to the specifics of each scenario. The intention is to make the gameplay feel familiar, but with a fresh and modern feel, in line with players’ current expectations.
Destruction as a tactical tool
One of the pillars of the Battlefield series has always been its destruction system, and in Battlefield 6, this aspect reaches new heights. David Sirland explained that the first major investment in the project was precisely in destruction technology. The goal was to solve historical problems, such as the excessive demolition of scenarios in titles like Bad Company 2, where total destruction could negatively affect gameplay.
In this new installment, the destruction will not only be more visually stunning, but will also have a tactical purpose. Players will be able to collapse floors or create new routes strategically. The destruction engine has been designed to make the environment react in a predictable and logical way, allowing players to learn the rules of how materials break and use it to their advantage.
In addition, a persistent surface damage system has been implemented, meaning that walls will not only be punctured, but will also show cracks and progressive damage. This creates a dynamic environment that constantly changes during gameplay, offering a unique visual and tactical experience in each encounter. Alexia Christofi added that the intention is for this destruction not to feel “gimmicky or random,” but to operate under clear rules, while still offering a different gameplay experience every time.
Innovations
Battlefield 6 introduces new mechanics such as “Drag and Revive” and a “stickier” combat system. This system allows players to drag their fallen comrades to safety before reviving them, adding a strategic layer to the revival process. Our interviewees noted that this feature, which took time to perfect, is designed to integrate seamlessly into the rhythm of gameplay, allowing players to defend themselves or exit the animation at any time.
Alexia Christofi, as a support player, highlighted how this mechanic has strengthened interaction within the squads, fostering coordination and teamwork. The ability to drag a teammate and have another teammate cover him or her, or even have another medic assist, promotes a more cohesive and rewarding team experience. These additions, along with the refined combat system, seek to improve squad dynamics and cooperation between players, essential elements for success on the battlefield.
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