After a chaotic opening weekend dominated by large-scale vehicular warfare, DICE is dialing down the scope and cranking up the intensity for the second and final weekend of the Battlefield 6 open beta. The studio is introducing 'Empire State,' a new infantry-only map set in the streets of New York, and reintroducing two classic modes designed to appeal to long-time fans. If the first weekend was about scale, this one appears to be about fundamentals.
The second beta weekend is scheduled to run from Thursday, August 14, to Sunday, August 17 (or Monday, August 18, depending on your time zone), and will be available on all launch platforms. All content from the first weekend, including the Siege Of Cairo, Liberation Peak, and Iberian Offensive maps, will remain accessible.
Welcome to New York, Soldiers
The main attraction is undoubtedly the 'Empire State' map. Set in a burnt and torn section of Brooklyn, this map strips away the tanks, jets, and helicopters, forcing players into a purely infantry-based, close-quarters combat scenario. According to details on the official EA website, the gameplay will focus on verticality, utilizing alleys, streets, and accessible rooftops.
Honestly, this is a welcome and necessary change of pace. After the sprawling, vehicle-centric maps of the first beta, 'Empire State' promises to showcase the ground-level gunplay and squad dynamics that are just as crucial to the series' identity. It’s a deliberate move to prove that Battlefield 6 isn’t just about creating massive playgrounds, but also tightly designed combat arenas. This is where mechanical depth is truly tested, and we'll see if the core shooting mechanics can stand on their own without the spectacle of exploding tanks.
Nostalgia, Deployed
In a move that will surprise no one but please many, DICE is bringing back two fan-favorite game modes from the franchise's past. It’s a classic publisher tactic-when you want to secure the veteran player base, deploy the nostalgia.
The returning modes are:
- Rush: The iconic objective-based mode where attackers must arm and destroy M-COM stations to advance, while defenders dig in to stop them.
- Squad Deathmatch: A straightforward, yet beloved mode where multiple squads compete in a race to a target kill count.
The inclusion of these modes, alongside modern staples like Conquest and Breakthrough, suggests DICE is aiming for a comprehensive "something for everyone" package at launch. Adding them to the beta feels like a direct nod to the community, reassuring them that the classic DNA of the series remains intact.
The Complete Beta Picture
With the addition of 'Empire State,' Rush, and Squad Deathmatch, this second weekend provides a much fuller picture of what Battlefield 6 aims to be. The combination of massive, vehicle-inclusive warfare and tight, infantry-focused battles offers a glimpse into the strategic variety the final game promises. Players who participate in the beta can also complete in-game challenges to unlock exclusive cosmetic rewards for the full game upon its release.
This is the final opportunity for players to test the game and for DICE to gather feedback before launch. Whether it’s a confident showcase or a last-ditch stress test remains to be seen, but for now, it’s time to see how well Battlefield holds up without its heavy metal. See you on the streets of Brooklyn.
