Developer DICE is currently working on comprehensive crossplay features for the new shooter Battlefield 2042. However, it seems that a change to the schedule is necessary to implement these.
What’s it about? In a new blog post, the developers of Battlefield 2042 confirm that they want to integrate crossplay features into the game.
Therefore, they have decided to move the technical gameplay test to late summer and, as part of this test, to thoroughly examine the crossplay functionality. The gameplay test was originally scheduled for July 2021.
What is being postponed? The technical gameplay test is not an open beta or demo for Battlefield 2042 but serves to test specific features. It does not represent the complete gaming experience.
Accordingly, it will only take place with a small group of individuals under a confidentiality agreement. Anyone wishing to participate in such tests needs an EA playtesting profile and must then hope for an invitation.
The testers will therefore check in late summer how well crossplay works in Battlefield 2042. The options the developers have planned will be shown here.
This is how crossplay and cross-progression should work in Battlefield 2042
These platforms will get crossplay: Basically, according to the announcement, two separate environments are apparently planned that can play together.
- The first environment will consist of PC, Xbox Series X | S, and PlayStation 5, which should be able to play together.
- The second environment consists of Xbox One and PlayStation 4.
PC and console players should be able to decide whether they want to disable crossplay.
This distinction is likely explained by the performance capabilities of the different platforms. There are also significant differences elsewhere, such as in the player count: The new consoles can handle battles with up to 128 players, while Xbox One and PS4 can accommodate 64 players.
The playable area of the maps will also be adjusted for the older consoles to ensure smooth gameplay. Features such as weapons, vehicles, the new specialists, and gadgets should remain the same regardless of the console generation. You can find all the differences between the Battlefield versions here.
This is how cross-progression works in Battlefield 2042: You should be able to seamlessly carry your progress across all platforms when playing Battlefield 2042 on different devices. EA states:
“For example, your unlocked progress and purchases from your PlayStation® version of the game will be carried over to the Xbox or PC version and vice versa” (via EA.com).
It is important to note that this is currently still referred to as ongoing work and planning. How the crossplay plans will come into effect at release remains to be seen.
More information about the new shooter is expected not to take too long. EA Play will take place on July 22 – and Battlefield 2042 is expected to be showcased in more detail at EA Play.
