'Battlefield 2042' Permanently Removes Mode On PS5, Xbox Series X, And PC

If you're wondering how things are going for Battlefield 2042, publisher EA just announced that it's permanently removing a mode on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

The much-maligned multiplayer shooter has had a rough time of it since launching late last year. Between the glitches, unremarkable updates, and rapidly declining player numbers, it's clear that Battlefield 2042 just hasn't been the hit that DICE and EA wanted it to be.

As part of Update 4.1 (available May 19), EA has confirmed that it will be removing Battlefield 2042's 128-player Breakthrough mode on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. From now on, the mode will support 64 players.

"When reviewing the available experiences in All-Out Warfare, we felt that the 128 player modes are better suited for Conquest where gameplay spaces are larger, and where you have a more natural fit for sandbox gameplay," EA explained on its website.

EA added that it simply felt 128 players was too many for Breakthrough, and that the contributions of individual players felt lessened due to the chaos of so much happening on one map.

"As a result, squads in Breakthrough 64 have a better opportunity to work together, to flank the enemy, place a spawn beacon, use their plus menu to attach suppressors, then clear, and hold a point - one squad helping turn the tide as an example," EA continued.

"We believe that the move to 64 players will bring back the pacing that helps celebrate these moments of teamwork and PTFOing, and will be keeping a close eye on how our changes help to improve the experience ahead of the start of Season 1."

A recent report from Battlefield insider Tom Henderson for WhatIfGaming suggests that EA is already planning to release the next instalment in the Battlefield franchise in 2024. Given the complete lack of impact Battlefield 2042 has made on players, that may end up being for the best.