EA’s Rent-A-Server program, which allows players to rent servers and host their own private matches, won’t launch with Battlefield 1. However, it will be available “close after launch”.
In a blog post, EA also didn’t specify price. The servers will be available to rent through the in-game store and players will go directly through the publisher for servers rather than third party companies. One of the benefits is that EA can “secure the quality of the actual hardware.”
“Since the servers come from the same provider, it will give everyone the same uniform experience. Furthermore, if you have questions or need help, you will be able to reach out to EA Support directly instead of third-party support.”
There may be some restriction to the modes available at launch for rented servers though they may arrive later based on player feedback. “But you can expect that we’ll keep adding customization options and UI design throughout 2016.”
Battlefield 1 is out on October 21st for Xbox One, PS4 and PC.
