EA Says Next Battlefield Is 'Expected' Fiscal Year 2026

The next installment of the acclaimed *Battlefield* series is set to launch within EA's fiscal year 2026, spanning from April 2025 to March 2026. This announcement came during EA's financial report for the third quarter of the fiscal year ending March 2025. Alongside the release window, EA unveiled a sneak peek of the game's pre-alpha gameplay through a video introducing Battlefield Labs, a new initiative designed to integrate player-driven testing and innovation into the game's development process.

EA's commitment to the new *Battlefield* is underscored by the formation of Battlefield Studios, encompassing four dedicated studios: DICE in Stockholm, Sweden, focusing on multiplayer components; Motive, known for *Dead Space* and *Star Wars: Squadrons*, handling single-player missions and multiplayer maps; Ripple Effect, formerly DICE LA, tasked with attracting new players to the franchise; and Criterion, previously involved with *Need for Speed*, now contributing to the single-player campaign.

As the development enters a critical phase, EA is keen on gathering player feedback through Battlefield Labs to refine core aspects of the game. This includes testing core combat and destruction mechanics, balancing weapons, vehicles, and gadgets, and enhancing maps, modes, and squad play. Key game modes like Conquest and Breakthrough will be tested, alongside exploring new ideas and refining the class system to foster deeper strategic gameplay.

Despite the excitement, it's important to note the closure of Ridgeline Games last year, which was working on a standalone single-player *Battlefield* title. This shift in focus comes after the mixed reception of *Battlefield 2042*, which, despite eventually finding its footing, was criticized for its Specialist system and large-scale 128-player maps. The upcoming game will return to a modern setting, reminiscent of *Battlefield 3* and *Battlefield 4*, and will feature 64-player maps, omitting the Specialist system.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson has described the new *Battlefield* as one of the most ambitious projects in the company's history. Vince Zampella, head of Respawn and Group GM for EA Studios, emphasized the importance of returning to the core *Battlefield* experience while expanding the game's universe to offer more varied experiences within the franchise. Early concept art suggests the inclusion of ship-to-ship and helicopter combat, as well as natural disasters like wildfires.

While specific launch platforms and the final title remain undisclosed, the pressure is on for EA to deliver a game that not only recaptures the essence of *Battlefield* but also builds on its legacy to regain the trust and enthusiasm of its dedicated fanbase.