PGC NEWS

Battlefield V. Judging it based on its controversial and somewhat misleading marketing campaign would be a grave mistake for any gamer. This latest installment in the long-running franchise delivers a unique and impressive experience, surpassing many of its FPS competitors this year, including its long-time rival, Call of Duty. While it may not reach the legendary heights of some classic Battlefield titles, Battlefield V introduces innovative changes that revitalize the core gameplay. Let’s delve into the details of what makes Battlefield V stand out.

Battlefield V Gameplay

A Battlefield with Depth

Initially, Battlefield V might feel like a reskinned Battlefield 1. However, beneath the surface lies a revamped progression system that subtly transforms the familiar Battlefield formula. This often-overlooked feature adds significant depth and differentiates Battlefield V from its predecessors.

The progression system affects every aspect of gameplay, from character classes and weapons to vehicles. With minor tweaks, you can transform your sniper into a mid-range combatant capable of close-quarters support, or adopt a new playstyle as a spotter, marking enemies for your team.

Character Customization

Battlefield V’s gated progression system encourages players to master the basics before delving into more specialized playstyles. This is a fantastic boon for newcomers. Developer DICE has emphasized the distinctions between classes and vehicles. Medics are no longer frontline fighters, and anti-aircraft vehicles aren’t leading the charge. DICE has created significant differences in class weaponry, limited ammunition and supplies, increasing interdependence between assault, support, and logistical units. This encourages players to choose diverse classes, enriching the dynamic battlefield.

Improved Single-Player Campaign

Battlefield 1 broke the mold of traditional Battlefield single-player campaigns with its anthology of short stories revolving around World War I. Battlefield V builds upon this foundation, elevating the experience by incorporating elements from its multiplayer counterpart.

Recognizing the shortcomings of the previous installment’s single-player, Battlefield V expands on its world-building. Levels are significantly larger and feature non-linear gameplay. Players have complete control over their approach to objectives, creating unique experiences with each playthrough.

Single Player Environment

These borrowed multiplayer elements significantly increase the single-player campaign’s replayability. While not on par with narrative-driven shooters, the improvements demonstrate positive progress from DICE.

Stunning Audio-Visual Presentation

Beyond incorporating cutting-edge RTX technology, Battlefield V optimizes its already impressive visuals. Frame rate drops and stuttering during explosions and weather effects, previously hardware intensive, have been significantly reduced. Impressively, visual quality remains high even on mid-range and lower-end systems.

Battlefield V Graphics

Battlefield has a tradition of exceptional sound design, and Battlefield V is no exception. Unlike other war games, Battlefield V’s sound design prioritizes immersion without overwhelming the player. Dominant sounds are emphasized, like the roar of a burning plane overhead, while less critical sounds, like your own weapon fire or friendly tank treads, are subtly reduced. This creates a less chaotic and more engaging audio experience.

Sound Design Example

Historical Inaccuracies

EA overpromised on Battlefield V’s historical accuracy. While successful as a general shooter, it falls short in its portrayal of World War II. In an attempt to appease a broader audience, the developers included female soldiers in German and British armies. While women contributed significantly to the war effort, their presence was primarily in logistical and production roles, not on the front lines. The inclusion of female soldiers, coupled with their sometimes jarring voice acting, detracts from the historical immersion.

Historical Inaccuracy

The weapon unlock system is also problematic. Both factions share the same unlock system and arsenal. At lower levels, soldiers of the same class use identical weapons regardless of faction, leading to bizarre scenarios like German troops wielding Allied weaponry.

Weapon System Issue

The customizable character outfits further exacerbate this issue. The freedom to mix and match clothing colors removes a crucial element of wartime gameplay: enemy identification. Players rely solely on teammate markers, eliminating the challenge of visually distinguishing foes.

Persistent Bugs

Disappointingly, issues from previous Battlefield games resurface in Battlefield V. The infamous black loading screen from Battlefield 4 returns, along with game crashes and infinite loading screens after matches. The “one-shot kill” bug, caused by errors in the Time to Death (TTD) system, also persists. These issues significantly impact the gameplay experience, especially for those playing in groups. It’s baffling that these previously resolved problems have reappeared.

Game Bugs

Conclusion

Battlefield V offers a compelling and innovative experience, excelling in gameplay depth and presentation. However, its historical inaccuracies and persistent technical issues hold it back from true greatness. While the core gameplay is undeniably engaging, addressing these shortcomings is crucial for the future of the franchise.