Battlefield playtest footage leaks online, revealing major changes
Electronic Arts' (EA) Battlefield Labs playtest, which launched today under a strict Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), has already seen a major leak. A participant (anto_merguezz), who is one of many players involved in leaking the gameplay, streamed the session on Twitch and revealed elements that were meant to remain confidential. That footage (plus multiple others) quickly spread across platforms like Reddit and Twitter, broadcasting an early look at what appears to be a return to classic Battlefield mechanics with improved destruction and movement systems.
The leaked gameplay showcases intense urban combat in a densely packed map. The destruction system appears significantly better in real-time - something players have long requested after the less destructible environments in Battlefield 2042.
One Reddit post with the leaked footage has received widespread attention, with players seeing similarities to Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4, particularly in map design and gunplay. Some comments highlighted the smooth transition between sprinting and standing, which is a feature absent from some previous titles. Many also stated how the interface seems to blend elements from Battlefield 5 and Battlefield 4, though some pointed out that it looks cluttered. However, the overall feedback appears to be very positive so far.
Regardless, some players are understandably frustrated. Many fans who signed up for the playtest but were not invited are concerned that NDA violations could lead to stricter restrictions or fewer playtest opportunities in the future. EA has yet to issue an official statement on the situation, but if past incidents are any indication, the leaker could face consequences, ranging from bans to legal action.
Historically, publishers have taken down leaked footage through DMCA strikes, but given how widely the content has spread, it may be too late to contain it entirely. For now, fans are dissecting every frame of the leaked footage.
