EA has announced plans to reveal details about an upcoming community testing program for its next Battlefield game on February 3, starting at 8 a.m. PDT / 5 p.m. CET. This initiative offers selected fans the chance to play the next installment, which is informally known as Battlefield 6, before its official release.
The Battlefield series has faced hurdles in recent years, especially with the launch of Battlefield 2042 in 2021, which was marred with technical problems. Similarly, Battlefield 5 also encountered its own set of challenges when it came out three years prior.
To prevent a repeat of these issues, EA is taking a proactive approach by introducing an early community testing program. Initially hinted at in September 2024, this program will provide valuable player feedback, helping developers iron out significant problems before the game hits the shelves. More information on this program will be rolled out on Monday, February 3, which marks a significant step in making sure the game is polished and ready for players.
Battlefield 6, guided by EA’s EVP Vince Zampella, has been in internal testing for over a year, and its development is a collaborative effort across multiple studios. DICE, known for its multiplayer expertise, is handling that aspect of the game. Meanwhile, EA Motive—famous for the Dead Space remake—is crafting the single-player story, and Criterion Games, which has a track record with the Need for Speed franchise, is on board in a support capacity.
As we prepare for the Battlefield 6 playtest, it seems that the game may be entering the final phase of its development. Nonetheless, its launch date remains up in the air. The game already boasts the longest development period for a mainline Battlefield title, reflecting an industry trend of increasingly prolonged AAA game production cycles. EA often schedules new releases for the holiday period, which leaves potential launch windows open for late 2025 or even into Q4 2026.
Post-playtest, more news on Battlefield 6 is expected to surface as developers incorporate player insights and gauge the remaining development work. Historically, Battlefield games have been unveiled around late spring or early summer, and this year might follow suit, especially if EA aims for a fall release.
