Electronic Arts will reopen Battlefield Labs on December 2 as part of a broader effort to test gameplay changes planned for the next Battlefield 6 update. The company confirmed that the first new session will preview adjustments scheduled to arrive in the December 9 game update. Access will be limited to PC participants through the EA App and Steam.
According to EA, the session will examine revisions to core combat systems. The test will take place on the Eastwood and Operation Firestorm maps within the All Out Warfare playlist, featuring both Conquest and Escalation modes. The studio stated that the goal is to evaluate revisions to clarity, responsiveness, and general combat feel before the changes are deployed more widely.
The developer outlined three main areas under review. Footstep audio is being modified to improve distance perception, surface differentiation, and overall audibility of enemy players. Networking and hit registration are also receiving updates intended to support more consistent interactions, particularly during close range engagements and high intensity firefights. Additional adjustments affecting multiple combat systems will be included, though these were not specified in detail.
Regional testing windows will run for two hours, with sessions scheduled for 8 to 10 PM JST in APAC, 7 to 9 PM CET in Europe, and 4 to 6 PM PST in North America. Only players who previously registered for Battlefield Labs and accepted the nondisclosure agreement will be able to participate. EA plans to send separate confirmation emails before the session begins.
The company indicated that Battlefield Labs is being expanded to support more structured and more frequent testing opportunities. The program will introduce two formats. Planned play sessions will focus on experimental or future features intended for upcoming updates, allowing participants to preview in development content. Short notice sessions will be deployed when the studio requires immediate feedback on targeted gameplay changes.
EA added that it is evaluating ways to improve accessibility to future sessions in order to involve more players. While details were not provided, the studio said additional information will be shared as development continues.
Looking forward, Battlefield Labs will be used to review early concepts such as map layout changes, pacing adjustments, and alternative team structures. These may include reduced player counts or vehicle centric match configurations. Other test categories include new modes, prototype mechanics, environmental updates, and upcoming seasonal content before changes are finalized. Performance and stability evaluations will also remain part of the program.
The studio encouraged players to sign up for EA Playtesting and join the official Battlefield Discord for updates. It also noted that details in its announcement may change depending on community feedback and ongoing development needs.
