Melee weapons should be relevant and frequently used in Battlefield 1 and the developers are now providing insights into the system.
In the “Battlefield 1” beta, we already saw various melee attacks. This included the bayonet charge, which allows players to quickly take down enemies. There are also 3 additional classes of melee weapons, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. If one prefers a quieter kill with a melee weapon instead of rushing at the enemy yelling, one can use knives, clubs, or blades/special weapons.
Differences of Melee Weapons in Battlefield 1
Tommy Rydling states on the official Battlefield 1 website that knives, clubs, and blades/special weapons are a rough classification of melee weapons. The individual classes differ in 3 main aspects: How quickly one can swing the weapon, how much damage it inflicts, and how easily one can achieve a brutal takedown with this weapon. The developers drew inspiration from the circumstances of World War I for these weapons. Soldiers had to proceed quietly when attacking a trench.
Among other things, the confined spaces and the lack of mobility at that time were reasons why various melee weapons were used. Some soldiers used small trench knives while others used simple objects as weapons for close combat.
Knives: A knife inflicts low damage, but it is the fastest weapon when performing multiple attacks in succession. Additionally, the takedown zone is significantly larger than that of other melee weapon types. For example, one has the largest possible takedown zone when attacking an enemy soldier from behind with a knife.
Clubs: Clubs are rated “medium” in various areas. They have a moderate attack speed, inflict moderate damage, and have a medium-sized takedown zone.
Blades/Special Weapons: This category includes weapons like a shovel, a pickaxe, or an axe. These weapons are very effective but also some of the slowest melee weapons. The takedown zone of these weapons is the smallest compared to the other categories.
Bayonet Charge: This attack offers various advantages. If you use this attack, you run faster than sprinting. While performing this attack, you also take less damage from gunfire. If you hit an enemy with this attack, you take them down with an unblockable takedown. Disadvantages of this attack include that enemies are warned by the loud shout. If the attack fails, you cannot sprint during the cooldown. Although this attack carries high risk, it is deadly when you hit.
At the beginning of the game, you have access to knives, clubs, and shovels. As you progress, you can equip better weapons that can even cut through barbed wire. With some special weapons, you can even destroy wooden barricades or damage light vehicles. Despite the brutal melee combat, Battlefield 1 has received a USK 16 rating.
On the maps already available in the release content, you can choose which melee weapon you prefer.
