Destruction has long been a defining feature of the Battlefield series, and DICE is set to elevate this aspect to new heights in the upcoming installment. Recently, the developer released a video and a Battlefield Labs Community Update, providing a glimpse into what fans can expect from the next Battlefield game. In the showcased pre-alpha footage, we witness the power of DICE's destruction mechanics, as an explosion tears down a building's side, creating a new pathway for players to navigate through the structure.
Destruction in Battlefield not only adds a layer of realism but also encourages creative gameplay. According to the Community Update, DICE is focusing on enhancing gameplay depth by allowing players to dynamically alter the environment. Whether it's breaching a wall to set up an ambush or forging a new route to a strategic point, manipulating the battlefield can offer significant tactical advantages.
"We're designing destruction around easily identifiable visual and audio cues that help players understand what can be destroyed, altered, or transformed through gameplay," DICE explained. "Our goal is to integrate destruction seamlessly into the Battlefield experience, creating an intuitive, fun, and rewarding environment where players feel empowered to shape the world around them."
The impact of various forces on structures, such as walls, will vary. While explosives are effective, even bullets can gradually erode surfaces, allowing players to shoot through them. Audio and visual feedback will inform players of their progress in damaging structures.
Furthermore, the aftermath of destruction leaves lasting effects on the battlefield. For instance, debris from a demolished building can serve as cover, adding another strategic element to the gameplay. It's clear that destruction is a central theme for the next Battlefield game.
Dubbed "Battlefield 6" by fans, the next installment is gradually taking shape. Though official details are sparse, leaked gameplay has garnered positive feedback from the community. The game is expected to return to a modern setting and is slated for release within Electronic Arts' fiscal year 2026, spanning from April 2025 to March 2026. However, the release date might shift if major competitors announce their launch dates.
With significant effort invested in this new entry, the next Battlefield game promises to push boundaries, and perfecting the level destruction mechanics appears to be a promising step forward.