EA’s Battlefield 2042 did not meet expectations, leading to disappointment for the company. However, the Battlefield franchise retains its popularity and is set to expand with a significant new installment. CEO Andrew Wilson emphasized the importance of developing the new Battlefield game during EA’s recent earnings briefing, expressing high hopes for the project and its potential impact on the company.
Wilson highlighted the excitement within the community regarding the efforts of the development teams and the anticipation for future content. He described the new Battlefield game as one of EA’s most ambitious projects, with the company assembling an exceptional team and providing ample resources and technology to create an outstanding Battlefield experience. This dedication reflects EA’s commitment to reinvigorating the franchise.
The upcoming Battlefield game, referred to as a “Battlefield universe,” is being developed by the largest team in the franchise’s history. Development teams from DICE, Motive, Criterion, and Ripple Effect are collaborating to deliver both multiplayer and single-player experiences. This collaborative effort aims to create a comprehensive and immersive Battlefield world.
Reports earlier this year suggested that the new Battlefield game will feature a free-to-play battle royale mode developed by Ripple Effect. However, the game is not expected to be released until at least 2025 and does not yet have an official name. In August, Wilson mentioned that the next Battlefield installment would represent a “reimagination” of the franchise, indicating a potential shift in its direction and style.
EA closed Ridgeline Games earlier this year, a studio that was developing a narrative experience for the Battlefield franchise. This closure led to criticism from Halo co-creator and former Ridgeline head Marcus Lehto.
Despite the challenges faced by Battlefield 2042, the franchise has demonstrated its resilience, surpassing 25 million players in the past 12 months.
Battlefield 2042, despite its initial issues, ended 2021 as the fifth best-selling game in the US and received continued support from EA and DICE with seven seasons of expansion content. The game is now available on Xbox Game Pass, reflecting its enduring presence in the gaming market.
