Battlefield 2042, released in 2021, had a difficult launch and continues to struggle with a range of issues. These include backlash from fans over changes to the game’s core concept, its heavy CPU demands, and problems with player counts, which have made filling the 128-player maps nearly impossible.
Vince Zampella, head of Respawn, has announced that a new Battlefield game is in development, with a focus on taking the franchise “back to basics.” According to Zampella, the upcoming title won’t explore historical settings or future scenarios but will instead feature modern-era combat, complete with contemporary weapons. On this decision, Zampella said, “I mean, if you look back to the peak or the pinnacle of Battlefield, it’s that Battlefield 3… Battlefield 4 era where everything was modern. And I think we have to get back to the core of what Battlefield is and do that amazingly well, and then we’ll see where it goes from there. But I think for me, it’s that the peak of Battlefield-ness is in those Battlefield 3 and 4 days. So I think it’s nostalgic for players, for me, for teams even. Those are kind of the heyday… although I would say 1942 also.”
Concept art for the game suggests urban warfare in modern cities, signaling a return to present-day battles. Another major shift is the removal of 128-player maps. Zampella revealed that the new game will focus on 64-player maps, designed with a greater emphasis on density and realism. He commented, “I’d rather have nice, dense, really nice, well-designed play spaces,” adding that the new maps will be “really good.”
One of the most requested features from longtime fans is also making a return: the classic class system. In Battlefield 2042, the introduction of “Specialists” was met with criticism, particularly from fans of Battlefield 3 and 4. While many consider 2042 one of the biggest flops in recent gaming history, Zampella doesn’t entirely agree. He noted that the development team “really spent a lot of time learning how to adapt it and getting things back.” Nevertheless, he acknowledged the importance of avoiding past mistakes, saying, “We want it to be good out of the gate.”