DICE has pulled back the curtain on significant changes coming to the class system in the next iteration of the Battlefield franchise. Moving away from some recent design choices, the developers are placing renewed emphasis on class identity and teamplay, albeit with a modern twist that includes something akin to `ultimate abilities` for each role.
Introducing the Training System
At the core of this overhaul is a new mechanic called “Training.” Players will passively accumulate Training progress throughout a match by actively engaging with objectives and participating in team-oriented actions. This progress isn`t merely cosmetic; it unlocks successive tiers of passive bonuses unique to the player`s chosen class. The system culminates upon reaching level three Training, granting access to a powerful, class-specific active ability.
The concept might sound familiar to players of hero shooters, bringing a dose of special power fantasy to the traditionally more grounded Battlefield experience. However, DICE emphasizes that this system is designed to reward players for fulfilling their class role effectively within the chaos of battle. Using the level three ability will reset the Training progress back to level two, allowing players to start building towards their ultimate again.
Training Paths and Passive Perks
Each class will offer players a choice between two distinct Training paths. While both paths ultimately lead to the same level three active ability for that class, they provide different sets of passive perks at levels zero, one, and two. This allows for a degree of specialization within a class based on player preference or tactical need.
Consider the Recon class as an example. One Training path, focused perhaps on sniping, might grant improved spotting capabilities early on and potentially make enemies hit by sniper headshots unrevivable at higher passive tiers. An alternative path, maybe centered around flanking or intel gathering, could offer faster movement while crouched or prone and automatically spot damaged enemies. The final reward for both paths, the level three active ability, would be the same, such as calling in a UAV to automatically spot enemies in an area for a limited time.
Weapon Freedom, Class Specialization
A notable shift previously announced was the removal of class-locked weapons. While players will still have the freedom to equip any weapon with any class, DICE is providing clear incentives to utilize signature weapon types. Using a class`s designated weapon category will bestow additional passive effects, ensuring that sticking to traditional roles still offers tangible combat advantages.
Here`s a breakdown of the revealed signature gear and bonuses for each class:
Assault
- Signature Weapon Class: Assault Rifles – Provides faster sprint-to-shoot transitions and quicker weapon swapping.
- Signature Trait: Enhanced Mobility – Reduces fall damage and eliminates movement speed penalties from falls.
- Signature Gadget: Adrenaline Injector – Grants resistance to flash and stun effects, boosts sprint speed, reduces explosive damage, and enhances the sound of enemy footsteps for a brief period.
Engineer
- Signature Weapon Class: Sub Machine Guns – Offers improved hip-fire control.
- Signature Trait: Explosive Damage Resistance – Reduces incoming damage from explosives.
- Signature Gadget: Repair Tool – The essential tool for keeping friendly vehicles in the fight.
Support
- Signature Weapon Class: Light Machine Guns – Eliminates sprint speed penalties typically associated with LMGs.
- Signature Trait: Faster Revive – Enables quicker revival of downed teammates.
- Signature Gadget: Supply Bag – Provides healing and resupplies ammunition to nearby allies.
Recon
- Signature Weapon Class: Sniper Rifles – Decreases scope sway, improves breath holding steadiness, and speeds up rechambering between shots.
- Signature Trait: Aim Spotting – Automatically spots enemies when aiming down sights at them.
- Signature Gadget: Motion Sensor – Detects and tracks enemy movement within a limited range.
Development and Feedback
DICE has confirmed that these systems have been tested in recent Battlefield Lab play sessions, indicating a commitment to incorporating player feedback into the development process. They explicitly mentioned removing Ballistic Armor based on community input and are continuing to refine other core mechanics like movement, animation, and vehicle handling.
For eager players hoping to experience these changes firsthand, signing up for Battlefield Labs offers a potential opportunity to join future playtests. While a full reveal of the next Battlefield is anticipated this summer, the game is currently slated for release sometime before March 2026.
This class system revamp signals DICE`s intent to blend traditional Battlefield teamplay roles with new, dynamic abilities. It aims to create more distinct and rewarding gameplay experiences for players who commit to their class`s specialty, even as the freedom of weapon choice opens up new tactical possibilities on the massive battlefields the franchise is known for.
Callum Darby