Some new details have emerged regarding classes and equipment in Battlefield 2042, specifically how players can use items like rocket launchers regardless of specialist or class. Battlefield has always been very squad focused, making players pick some sort of support role that benefits their squad or team as a whole. While this remains true in Battlefield 2042, DICE is shaking things up a bit to make it both fresh and also much more convenient for players.
Battlefield 2042 intends to shake up the formula of the series in many ways while still keeping the overall core gameplay experience the same. One way DICE is evolving the series is by creating specialists on top of the standard four classes fans already know. Specialists are extensions of these various classes and each character has a unique set of gadgets or traits to utilize in the game, which allows for things like wingsuits, syringe guns, and more. That said, some noteworthy gear won't be locked to any specific character in the game.
EA noted in a blog post that all players can use any sort of weapons they want, regardless of class. That means a recon class could carry a rocket launcher, but really every character can use any weapon. As seen in the Battlefield 2042 gameplay reveal, there's a lot of different gadgets to utilize. Classes function more as a way to dictate specialists, which have exclusive abilities and gadgets beyond just throwing down a med pack. Similarly, the Ranger (AKA the robot dog) is not a piece of equipment, and is instead something that can be called in by anyone at any time to be used tactically. Ranger will follow the players around, take commands, and even self-destruct if told to.
It's clear that DICE is trying to emphasize freedom to its players in many ways. Fans can not only customize their kit in virtually any way they like, but also call in key players that can act as a tactical plus one to the rest of the team. Of course, there are limitations, as Battlefield 2042's crossplay is somewhat restrictive thanks to disparity between console generations, but at least the option is available in some capacity.
It remains to be seen how much of a difference these loadout variations will make in gameplay. This should allow players to experiment with greater freedom in their builds, but that might come with balance issues once implemented. Only time will tell. Fans can expect to see more of Battlefield 2042 at EA Play on July 22 before an open beta begins sometime ahead of the October release date.
Battlefield 2042 will launch on October 22, 2021 for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Source: EA