What's Happening?
DICE, the developer behind Battlefield 6, has announced that the Open Weapons mode will be the primary focus for the game following feedback from the recent open beta. The beta, which saw over 92 million hours of gameplay, revealed that players overwhelmingly preferred the Open Weapons playlist, which allows any class to use any weapon. Despite this preference, DICE will still offer Closed Weapons playlists, where weapons are class-locked, to cater to players who favor this mode. The decision comes after observing that weapon usage was balanced across different archetypes, with no single weapon dominating the gameplay.
Why It's Important?
The decision to prioritize Open Weapons mode reflects a significant shift in gameplay dynamics for Battlefield 6, aligning it more closely with other popular first-person shooters like Call of Duty. This move could attract a broader audience by offering more flexibility in gameplay, potentially increasing the game's market appeal. However, it also risks alienating long-time fans who prefer the traditional class-locked weapon system. The inclusion of both modes at launch suggests DICE's attempt to balance innovation with tradition, aiming to satisfy both new players and veterans.
What's Next?
As Battlefield 6 approaches its launch, DICE will likely monitor player feedback closely to assess the reception of both Open and Closed Weapons modes. The company may adjust its strategy based on player engagement and satisfaction levels post-launch. Additionally, the community server browser could become a hub for players seeking classic gameplay experiences, potentially influencing future updates or expansions.