The Battlefield franchise has explored its fair share of war zones. From 1942 to modern day warfare in Battlefield 3&4. Then take us back to WW1 in Battlefield 1 and WW2 in Battlefield 5. This time around, developer DICE decided to give us a glimpse into what the future of all-out war looks like with Battlefield 2042. The question is, will this war last for years to come or will it end quickly and explosively?

The campaign is gone, as Battlefield 2042 does not offer a single-player mode, instead focusing on full-on multiplayer battles. This leaves a huge hole in the package and is a bold move by both DICE and EA. The war stories are sorely missed here, as it leaves a lot to be desired in terms of the world-building of this Battlefield, but they try to compensate by telling short stories before the start of each match to let us know why the future looks so bleak. With no campaign in sight, all the focus goes to the multiplayer. The class-based system of Assault, Medic, Mechanic, and Recon has also been removed in exchange for 'Specialists.'

Specialists are characters that have abilities, are fully voiced, have their own story you can read, and offer new gameplay possibilities. One might have a grappling hook, while another gets a riot shield; it adds a sort of hero-shooter feel to the world of Battlefield, more akin to games like Rainbow Six Siege and Overwatch. While the old system is sorely missed, Specialists bring more flexibility to the game, as you can choose which weapons you want to bring to battle without restrictions. The flexibility doesn’t stop there, as without specific roles to fill, anyone can unlock and use a repair tool or carry med packs, which can come in handy in the heat of battle. There are ten Specialists in the game, including the favorite Irishwoman from Battlefield 4, with four more planned for release in the first year of the game. It may not be on the same level as this system, but it does come with some promise.

Guns and gunplay have always been the defining features of Battlefield games, and there will be no shortage of weapons in 2042. Plenty of old favorites make a return, while new ones are also introduced, each updated for the future. Each weapon ranks up the more you use it, unlocking attachments for them that you can swap out mid-match at any time. This adds depth and progression to the game, which can be explored to your heart’s content.