Official Battlefield 4 Thread

[jason_bh]

It's still a few months away, but let's discuss the upcoming game.

Who's excited about the upcoming beta and video game?


Post your info, videos, strategies, etc.





U.S. Squad:


Chinese Squad:



Russian Squad:






Things we know so far:

Class reunion with a twist

The four playable kits from Battlefield 3 will be back in Battlefield 4: Engineer, Recon, Support, and Assault. While keeping these core kits intact, we are increasing the ability for players to more strongly specialize their combat role while also increasing flexibility and catering to different play styles. At the same time, we’re maintaining a distinct flavor in the different kits and building more meaningful interactions between them. We will go more in-depth on the specific classes in the next blog post.

No matter your play style, we have an extremely deep collection of features in Battlefield 4, and we want to make sure that you can experience that wide array of options available to you. Looking at Battlefield 3, I think only a fraction of our players have tried all available gadgets or vehicles in multiplayer. Of course you don’t have to use everything in the game, but I think we can do a better job in BF4 of letting players make more educated choices in their kit loadouts and combat roles.

I think some players in Battlefield 3 stuck with the default Assault loadout. That’s fine – there’s a reason why it’s the default – but I think they’re missing out on so much amazing variety. In Battlefield 4, we’re clearly displaying what gadgets can do for you, how different weapons compare, and how they affect your options on the Battlefield.

Great team play = great perks

We have this new concept called Field Upgrades. If you’re a long term fan that played Battlefield 2142, you will already have an idea what these are, but we have tweaked them for Battlefield 4. In short, Field Upgrades are chained boosts that can affect a number of gameplay mechanics for your player. Similar to the specializations in Battlefield 3, these can for example provide you with faster sprint speed, stronger personal armor, or expanded ammo capacity.

The idea behind Field Upgrades is to give individual rewards for squad based team play performance. You earn them through squad scoring such as squad healing, completing objectives with your squad members, squad resupplies, squad repairs, and other squad actions. Instead of one single specialization like in Battlefield 3, you can now pick from different upgrades paths, each containing four specializations. Keep the squad alive, and you will move through the accumulative upgrade path. But watch out! If your entire squad is eliminated, you will lose some of your progress.

Showing you how team play gives you the edge in the bigger battle is paramount for us, and it involves all elements of the game: audiovisual feedback, user interface, gameplay mechanics, and the way the entire persistence system is designed. When we tie all of these elements together with the tweaked team-based scoring, we have a game where I think everyone will find it satisfying and deeply engrossing to truly be part of a team.

[jason_bh]

Classes of BF4

Going into Battlefield 4, we knew we wanted to take the four playable classes from Battlefield 3 as a starting point. We’ve tweaked them to be more versatile and more highly specialized within their fields. Now more than ever, you can explore a wide range of combat roles and sub-roles when picking your load out and kit.

For example, this time around the Engineer has a lot more variation in anti-vehicle weapons. We’ve also revamped the way we do vehicle disables and guided weapon systems to give the Engineer a broader set of tactics at his disposal. This includes everything from high damage weapons that may be more challenging to use (like RPG-7V2) to fire-and-forget smart weapons with low damage (like the *** LAW), and the fan favorite Wire Guided Engineer Missile (the FGM-172 SRAW) that you might recognize from Battlefield 2.

The Support kit has a few more offensive options, and thanks to community feedback will retain his C4 and Claymores from Battlefield 3. The XM25 gives him some nice indirect suppressive fire, a redesigned remote mortar allows him to use indirect fire from a distance, and the ability to equip carbines and DMRs gives him an added versatility in combat roles.

Recon has gotten a much needed boost to mobility, as well as the return of the Spec Ops play style from Battlefield 2. Pack a carbine, C4 (or Claymores), and Motion Sensors and you’re good to go behind enemy lines. Fans of more traditional sniping roles will enjoy our revamped sniping mechanics with rebalanced Sniper Rifles, the ability to zero your sights (set an aiming distance), and additional optics and accessories. Finally, the Recon players can still utilize the MAV, T-UGS, and Radio Beacon to help out their team.

Assault is still the frontline run-and-gun kit that also serves the role of combat medic. This was one of the major changes in Battlefield 3 compared to Battlefield 2, and one that players have really appreciated. Assault is still the go-to kit with med kits and defibrillators but has picked up some additional mobility with the First Aid Pack, which heals a single soldier over time, or the 40mm Flash Bang rounds to help clear rooms.

[jason_bh]

Personally, I hate the suppression mechanic in BF3. But I think that I can live with the new tweaks.

No one single gameplay mechanic has been as frequently discussed as the suppression system in Battlefield 3. Suppression will return in Battlefield 4, but we’re redesigning it based on your extensive feedback while keeping the intense feeling of being under fire that a system like Suppression provides.

We’re increasing the suppression effect of Light Machine Guns, exclusive to the Support kit, while other weapons are less suppressive. Additionally, we’ve decreased suppression at close range to ensure that close quarters battles always focus sharply on player skill. Besides changing the visual effects of suppression, we’re also replacing the accuracy penalty in Battlefield 3 with a scope sway effect – similar to what snipers get in Battlefield 3 while suppressed. A skilled, focused player can keep his aim on target and get hits, even while under the effects of Suppression.

Overall, we believe we have a great-performing suppression system in Battlefield 4 that doesn’t interfere in close quarters combat, while at the same time allowing for skilled players of the Support kit to really make a difference. Laying down covering fire as Support means your frontline runners can gain a crucial momentum in medium-range combat and still allows you to combat the improved long-range options we’ve given players who prefer to stay back at long range.

[jason_bh]

This seems like a cool idea. I am sure it won't take long before people find exploits with it.

Watching our fans play Battlefield 3 has taught us a lot about player behavior. As developers, we tend to play our games one way, while fans try a lot of interesting things that we never thought of. Take the antenna on Caspian Border, for example. After players had seen it fall once, we could see them using everything in their arsenal to try and bring it down themselves. It might sound like a simple example, but it was one of the factors that initially made us think about incorporating bigger player-triggered destruction in Battlefield 4 – and that in turn led us to the game-changing concept that is Levolution.

Levolution is an overarching design concept incorporating a lot of features both big and small, that all affect gameplay in some way. You’ve probably already seen what it can do to skyscrapers but it also includes features like changing weather conditions that affects visibility, car alarms and metal detectors alerting players of enemy presence, or the ability to completely shroud a building in darkness and take out the enemies within using your IRNV scopes. Much more than just massive feats of destruction or pretty graphics, the exciting thing about Levolution is how it affects gameplay. From bringing down a skyscraper to securing a zone from enemy vehicles by raising bollards to block entry, Levolution will let you dynamically shape every game. And like so many other elements in Battlefield 4, Levolution also ties into the team play aspect of the game.

“Levolution will let you dynamically shape every game”

For example, depending on your team strengths, collapsing the skyscraper on our E3 map “Siege of Shanghai” can be either a positive or a negative. When you’ve knocked out its four main pillars, the skyscraper will fall in a massive cloud of dust and debris, killing all players unfortunate to be trapped inside. The base that used to be capture point C at the very top of the skyscraper will now be found at ground level, amidst the jarring blocks of concrete and rubble. This new infantry battleground will be clouded by dust, making navigation hard and often seeing players switch to infrared night vision scopes or FLIR. What used to be sniper heaven and the ideal paradrop base has suddenly turned into a low-visibility close quarters combat arena. This is great if you’re all about infantry combat, but if you have a team of great pilots, you will probably want the skyscraper to stay intact.

We’ll go more in-depth on the design process that led up to Levolution, as well as showcasing more examples of what this powerful concept can do in a future post. If there is one thing I wanted to focus on for multiplayer in Battlefield 4, it’s the idea of an open-ended design — We are creating a dynamic and complex “sandbox” where YOU decide what you want to do with it. That’s an emergent type of gameplay that we pride ourselves upon here at DICE.

[TSFP]

[jason_bh]

inn

First page posters must post pics.

[hockeybpr25]

Don't know if I should get this for PC or PS4. Have always got it for PC because I love 64 man servers but I would rarely have friends that would have a good enough PC to play. Whereas PS4 will have buddies of mine and 64 player servers but you're playing with a controller... Hmmmmmm

[Cannonsex]

strong what the **** at a game not released yet already having an expansion pack. ****ing money grubbing *******s over at EA./

[jason_bh]

strong what the **** at a game not released yet already having an expansion pack. ****ing money grubbing *******s over at EA./

LOL.


They already have 5 of them planned.

1. China Rising
2. Second Assault
3. Naval Strike
4. Dragons Teeth
5. Final Stand

[jason_bh]

Don't know if I should get this for PC or PS4. Have always got it for PC because I love 64 man servers but I would rarely have friends that would have a good enough PC to play. Whereas PS4 will have buddies of mine and 64 player servers but you're playing with a controller... Hmmmmmm

That's a tough call.

I plan on getting it for the Xbox 360 because of friends. But will be getting the PC version as well hopefully.

[tapout17]

U.S. Squad:[/B]


Chinese Squad:



Russian Squad:

I guess that's better, I miss the days when BF had actual factions. At least you can tell the difference, assuming there is no black camo skin.

[phookas]

innnnn spectator mode looks promising for the comp scene

[jason_bh]

I guess that's better, I miss the days when BF had actual factions. At least you can tell the difference, assuming there is no black camo skin.

You can bet that they will have different skins for the camo in BF4.

I would always try switching mine in BF3 only to have it reset to the default one by itself later on.

[Briisk]

Subbed.

Long time BF1942 player
Even longer BFV player (my favorite)
Short term BF2 player
Short term BF3 player

Any word on jungle/forest maps?

[jason_bh]

Subbed.

Long time BF1942 player
Even longer BFV player (my favorite)
Short term BF2 player
Short term BF3 player

Any word on jungle/forest maps?

I haven't heard about any jungle/forest maps. There had better be some.

[Essequani]

Nvm.. looks like commander will be for non-combat only.

[kingscorpio]

Don't know if I should get this for PC or PS4. Have always got it for PC because I love 64 man servers but I would rarely have friends that would have a good enough PC to play. Whereas PS4 will have buddies of mine and 64 player servers but you're playing with a controller... Hmmmmmm

I will be getting it for both PC (already preordered) and PS4. Gotta support what you love!

[Briisk]

So if my laptop can run BF3 on ultra pretty well, will I be able to run BF4 on lower settings? I know BF4 is using a different engine, will it make a difference?

[airdog93]

in on 60$ for a new map pack

[jason_bh]

So if my laptop can run BF3 on ultra pretty well, will I be able to run BF4 on lower settings? I know BF4 is using a different engine, will it make a difference?

It may play it but I would wait and check the requirements.

Nvm.. looks like commander will be for non-combat only.

I wasn't aware of that. Would Suck being the commander and nobody follows your commands for the whole match

[Sublime82]

I guess that's better, I miss the days when BF had actual factions. At least you can tell the difference, assuming there is no black camo skin.

Remember when (depending on the map) you could play as British, German, American, Italian, Japanese, Soviet, Free French Forces, or Canadian?

Although I do enjoy being able to customize your camouflage.

[hockeybpr25]

I will be getting it for both PC (already preordered) and PS4. Gotta support what you love!

Wish your stats transferred so you could play on either. I have BF3 for both PC and xbox.

[jason_bh]

Apparently the Second Assault Map Pack will contain some BF3 (Fan Favorites) maps.

Rumor is that they will be:
Firestorm
Gulf of Oman
Metro
Caspian Border

[bogui94]

Will there be an open beta?

[hockeybpr25]

Will there be an open beta?

There isn't much beta information out right now other than that they will have one next month. If you have premium or bought MOH you have access to the beta. I don't think it will be "open" though. I bet if you pre-order they will give you access. So my guess is pre-order, premium members, and people that buy MOH will be the only people with access.

[jason_bh]

From EA/DICE regarding the Beta.

Fall 2013 is your chance to get into the exclusive Battlefield 4™Beta. This is an event where we invite a specific subset of Battlefield fans to participate. While the exact date and contents of the exclusive Beta have not been announced, stay tuned to our official channels for the latest updates as they happen.

Battlefield 4 Exclusive Beta FAQ

Q: What is the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta?
A: This is an event where we invite specific players to take part in the Beta process for Battlefield 4™. This Beta will be focused on the technical aspects and online infrastructure of the online components of Battlefield 4™.

Q: What is the purpose of the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta?
A: The Beta gives us a chance to properly test our servers, the back end, and configure the multiplayer components of the game. By taking part, you will help us in ensuring a smooth launch for Battlefield 4™. You’ll also have the option to feedback directly to us with any gameplay ideas, bugs you find, and other thoughts on the Beta experience.

Q: Who can access the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta?
A: There are several ways to get into the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta: By pre-ordering the Battlefield 4™ Digital Deluxe Edition on Origin.com, by being a Battlefield 3: Premium member, and by being a registered owner of Medal of Honor Warfighter Limited Edition or Digital Deluxe Edition.

Q: How long is the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta and when does it start?
A: We will have more details about the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta at a later date. Stay tuned to our official channels for updates.

Q: What will the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta contain?
A: We will have more details about the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta later. Stay tuned to our official channels for updates.

Q: I am a Battlefield 3™ Premium member. What platform will I be able to access the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta on?
A: You will get access on the same platform that your Battlefield 3 Premium membership is tied to (PC, Xbox 360, or PlayStation 3.) This exclusive Beta will be available world-wide on all platforms, with the exception of Japan and rest of Asia on PS3.

Q: I have multiple potential entry points into the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta from different platforms -- Can I choose which platform to access the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta on, or give one of my invitations to a friend?
A: In these cases you will be able to access the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta on several platforms. Access is tied to your Origin ID and is non-transferable.

Q: I am eligible to access the exclusive Battlefield 4™ Beta in multiple ways -- Will I get several invites to access the exclusive Beta? If yes, can I share them?
A: If these entry points are all on the same platform (e.g. MOHW DD + BF4 DD), it would count as 1 invite. Access is tied to your Origin ID and is non-transferable.

Q: If I have an entry point on one platform, can I choose to play the beta on another platform (For example, Medal of Honor Warfighter Limited Edition PS3 player who wants to play the beta on PC?)
A: You will get access on the same platform that your entry point is tied to.

Q: Will there be an Open Beta for Battlefield 4™?
A: We have nothing to announce regarding, an Open Beta at this point in time.

[jason_bh]

[Woolyyyy]

Probably buying this for 360 to play with a bunch of friends. I haven't really seen much sniper gameplay though, anyone got links?

[jason_bh]

Probably buying this for 360 to play with a bunch of friends. I haven't really seen much sniper gameplay though, anyone got links?

Also...
Probably not what you are expecting but he is using the Recon class with a sniper rifle.

[jason_bh]

Also, I was on the Xbox last night and noticed an advertisement for BF4. It was an offer to buy the Premium Pack. They already have that available and the game isn't even out yet.

Say wut?