Battlefield 6: DICE makes extensive changes to the class system – but one key criticism remains

After the specialist system in Battlefield 2042 faced heavy criticism, many in the community began hoping Battlefield 6 would bring back the classic class setup – with clear roles, defined responsibilities and a stronger focus on team play. On May 21, DICE revealed details about the planned class system for the first time. While the approach was generally welcomed, it also sparked ongoing criticism. Following hands-on testing through the Battlefield Labs environment, DICE released a comprehensive update on Reddit on July 14, introducing some surprisingly major changes.

The changes at a glance

The new class system is split into two parts: customizable Training Paths and class-specific signature elements. With this structure, DICE aims to strike a balance between clear role definition and the loadout flexibility expected in modern shooters. Here’s a quick overview:

• Training Paths: Two skill paths per class, each with four levels. The bonuses range from passive effects to special abilities that can be activated once – such as a reconnaissance drone for the Recon. Progress resets each round and is designed to encourage active team play.
• Signature weapons: Each class favors a specific weapon type with passive advantages. For example, sniper rifles cause less recoil and reload faster when used by the Recon class.
• Signature perks and gadgets: Each class has exclusive perks and equipment – such as a repair tool for Engineers or a movement sensor for the Recon.

The developers have also introduced significant updates to how each class functions, along with extensive balancing tweaks to ensure a more refined and teamplay-oriented gameplay experience:

• Assault: Greater focus on mobility instead of self-healing. The limitation to one primary weapon aims to curb the “lone wolf” playstyle and promote team play.
• Engineer: Limiting loadouts to one missile weapon aims to create a better balance between destructive power and vehicle support.
• Support: Revision of supply mechanics to prevent overhealing. In the future, healing and ammunition resupply will be handled separately.
• Recon: A clearer focus on spotting and sabotage – including new options for reconnaissance and tactical disruption.

Positive community response – yet criticism persists

In the Reddit comments, many players responded positively to the changes and appreciated DICE’s clear efforts to address community feedback. Remarks like “This is a big step in the right direction” suggest that trust in the developers hasn’t been entirely lost. Still, one major concern remains: the unrestricted weapon choice. This decision drew criticism back in May and continues to do so now. Many players argue that fixed weapon assignments are key to class identity and effective team play. The freedom to choose any weapon also reminds some of the unpopular specialist system in Battlefield 2042, which largely erased traditional role distinctions.

Despite DICE’s quick response and the many welcome changes, a sense of skepticism remains. Whether the studio can truly rebuild long-term trust within the community is something the coming months will reveal. According to EA, Battlefield 6 is scheduled for release no later than March 2026.