Test Upcoming Games Before Release with Battlefield Labs

Battlefield Studios has officially launched Battlefield Labs, a new testing and feedback initiative designed to bring players closer to the development process of future Battlefield titles. This innovative platform enables direct collaboration between developers and the gaming community, allowing players to test early game builds and provide valuable input that will shape the final product. Read on for a detailed breakdown of what Battlefield Labs offers and how it could redefine player involvement in major franchise updates.

Battlefield Labs Unveiled – A New Era of Community Collaboration

Players Take Center Stage in Shaping Future Battlefield Experiences

In a major move toward player-driven development, Battlefield Studios—powered by EA—has introduced Battlefield Labs, a dedicated space where select players and developers can collaborate on upcoming Battlefield games. Announced on February 3, 2025, this initiative marks a significant shift in how large-scale AAA titles are developed, placing real-time player insights at the heart of the creative process.

According to official statements, the next Battlefield title is entering a pivotal stage of development where community engagement will play a critical role. Through Battlefield Labs, players will get hands-on access to experimental mechanics, features, and gameplay systems before they're finalized. This allows developers to refine their ideas based on authentic player experiences rather than internal testing alone.

Initially, Battlefield Studios will invite a limited group of players from European and North American servers to participate in the first phase of Battlefield Labs. While no official launch date has been set, interested players can register their interest via the official website.

"This game has so much potential. To find that potential, with us being pre-alpha, now is the time to test the experiences our teams have been building for our upcoming launch," said Vince Zampella, Head of Respawn & Group GM for EA Studios Organization. "Battlefield Labs empowers our teams to do that."

Although not all players will be selected to participate directly, Battlefield Studios has committed to keeping the broader community informed throughout the testing period. Regular updates will be shared to ensure even non-participants can follow along and stay engaged. Additionally, the studio plans to extend this collaborative approach to future Battlefield titles.

The team behind Battlefield Labs includes some of the most experienced studios within EA’s ecosystem: DICE (the original creators of the Battlefield franchise), Ripple Effect (a team led by veteran Battlefield developers working on a fresh experience for the series), Motive (known for critically acclaimed titles like Star Wars Squadrons and Dead Space), and Criterion (renowned for high-quality racing games and contributions to several Battlefield entries).

What Mechanics and Features Will Be Tested?

Participants in Battlefield Labs won't have access to the full game—only key components of an unfinished build. This phased approach ensures developers have room to adjust and iterate based on feedback before release. The initial focus will be on core gameplay elements, including:

• Core Combat Systems
• Destruction Mechanics
• Weapon Balancing
• Vehicles and Gadget Performance
• Map Design and Mode Integration
• Squad-Based Gameplay Dynamics

Two classic modes—Conquest and Breakthrough—will also be part of the testing process. These modes offer a solid foundation for experimenting with new ideas and refining existing gameplay loops.

Conquest Mode Overview

Conquest is known for its large-scale battles where teams compete to capture and hold control points across expansive maps. Each team begins with a set number of tickets, and matches end when one side depletes their ticket count. Tickets are lost through respawns or when the enemy controls more flags than your team.

Breakthrough Mode Overview

In Breakthrough, teams are divided into attackers and defenders. Attackers must advance through sectors on the map while defenders aim to stop their progress. Like Conquest, Breakthrough uses a ticket system, but attackers can replenish their tickets by successfully capturing a sector. Any remaining enemy soldiers after a sector is secured can be eliminated for an additional three tickets, adding a strategic layer to each match.

Beyond mode-specific improvements, Battlefield Studios is also exploring ways to enhance the class system in future Battlefield titles. While the team is confident in the current direction, they acknowledge the importance of player feedback in fine-tuning balance, functionality, and overall feel.

"We tirelessly playtest, but your feedback will supercharge our development as we strive to hit that perfect note between form, function, and feel."