Mon Aug 18 03:10:00 UTC 2025: **Headline: Battlefield 6 Open Beta Draws Massive Crowds, Sparks Debate Over Gameplay Direction**

**[City, State] –** The open beta for Battlefield 6 is drawing massive numbers of players, with the game hitting a peak of over 521,000 concurrent players on Steam alone during its first weekend, surpassing even Call of Duty’s peak player count. Twitch viewership also skyrocketed, dwarfing previous Battlefield titles. The second beta weekend, featuring the return of the classic Rush game mode and a new map set in Brooklyn, New York, is currently underway, but behind the excitement, a debate is brewing among players.

While many are enjoying the beta and praising the game’s chaotic gameplay and sound design, a vocal minority has taken to social media to express concerns about the game’s direction. Some criticize the new Rush implementation, citing the 12v12 player count and other changes that deviate from the mode’s original feel. Others argue that Battlefield 6 is abandoning its identity as a slower-paced, squad-focused shooter and instead attempting to mimic the faster, more twitch-based gameplay of Call of Duty.

Developers have already responded to some of the feedback, implementing changes to the Rush game mode, such as adjusting MCOM explosive timers and defender respawn times. It remains to be seen how these changes will be received by players.

Despite the controversy, many, including seasoned Battlefield veterans, are enjoying the beta and believe that Battlefield 6 is delivering a true Battlefield experience. They highlight the game’s need for intelligent squad play and its outstanding sound design as key factors.

The Battlefield 6 open beta is scheduled to end on August 17th, with the full game expected to launch on October 10, 2025. Pre-orders are currently available on Steam, Epic Games, EA, Xbox, and PS5. The developers will undoubtedly be monitoring player feedback closely as they prepare for the final release, hoping to strike a balance between honoring the series’ legacy and appealing to a wider audience.

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