Battlefield Labs Update Enhances Class Customization

EA is attempting to evolve the Battlefield franchise’s Class System by granting players more customization freedom in Battlefield Labs, a closed playtest where EA tests features in preparation for the upcoming full title release. The patch update adds class-specific signature traits, gadgets and weapon perks but opens weapons to other classes.

Choosing a non-signature weapon for a specified class results in restricted access to certain abilities. EA said the Class System is defined by two main components: customizable and class-defining. 

“The customizable components empower players to explore and push the boundaries of their roles within their chosen class while also still adhering to the expectations of the class. The class-defining components are designed to enhance pick-up-and-go playability and reinforce the expectations of your class identity,” the community update reads.

Here is the full official Battlefields Labs Community Update: 

CUSTOMIZABLE:

• Weapon Loadouts: Fully customizable weapon loadouts allow you the freedom to play the way you want. Play to the strengths of your class by using your signature weapons, or easily switch to any other weapon to meet the needs of your squad.
• Class Gadgets: You’ll have the option to carry two gadgets onto the battlefield, tailored to each class and its specific role. Recon aficionados specialize in intelligence and counterintelligence, with class gadgets including Deploy Beacons, Anti-Personnel Mines, and Laser Designators.
• Training: Our philosophy with Training is to offer a series of traits that can be unlocked during play to enhance your ability to perform your role. As you engage more in a match, you’ll gradually earn flat-stat bonuses and more to support the effectiveness of your role further.
• Throwables: Our approach to throwables prioritizes enabling each class to effectively fulfill its role by providing tailored throwables.

CLASS-DEFINING

• Signature Weapon: Each class has a Signature Weapon category tied to their class identity, which, when used, enhances their role on the battlefield. For example, using our same ongoing test subject, the Recon class, if you select a weapon from the Sniper Rifle category, you will benefit from increased breath-holding duration. In contrast, an Assault player choosing from the same category will not receive this bonus. 

DMRs, Carbines, and Shotguns remain viable options, no matter your class, but don’t benefit from any Signature Weapon bonus.

• Signature Trait: Each class features a unique Signature Trait, providing passive bonuses tailored to optimize your role on the battlefield. For instance, a Recon player automatically spots enemies while aiming down sights, encouraging the use of weapons that complement this specialization.
• Signature Gadget: These gadgets are unique and singular to each class with an aim for you to always have access to a tool that fulfills the role of that class. Separate from what you may choose as gadgets within your loadout.
• Default Weapon Packages: The default weapon package is a pre-set combination of attachments and visual customization for each class to be combat ready, with the option for further progression and personalization.

Some of the ideas and gameplay updates may never reach release, but testing the features helps EA understand and refine elements that resonate best with the players. Player satisfaction is one of Battlefield Labs’ playtest’s primary objectives since EA is attempting to hit a perfect combination of form, function and feel with its next Battlefield title. 

“We need to earn the trust of our core players back, but we also want to expand the universe and offer new experiences within Battlefield,” Vince Zampella, head of Respawn and group GM for EA Studios, said in an interview. “We’re all in on Battlefield, and we plan to offer more for players than ever before.”

Since the end of 2024, the Battlefield franchise has sold approximately 90 million units worldwide. Battlefield 2042, the most recent installment in the franchise, was met with a mixed to negative reception upon release. It was criticized for the lack of content at launch, numerous bugs and an unstable experience.