DICE surprised no one when it announced that its upcoming Battlefield 5 would have a battle royale mode (which it simply dubbed as “Royale” at EA Play). What motivated the addition of the mode? According to DICE creative director Lars Gustavsson, it was more out of the studio’s enjoyment of the genre.
Speaking to GameSpot at EA Play, Gustavsson relates how battle royale titles were popular among studio members. So rather than EA pressuring the studio to add it, the urge to go with the concept came from within.
“I would be lying [if I said] there weren’t people in the studio that would play [battle royale games] a lot. We enjoy it. It’s good fun, and it brings a new perspective,” Gustavsson said cheerfully. There is “lots of good energy” regarding Battlefield 5’s battle royale mode especially since it will have 64 players, vehicles and destructibility.
Gustavsson noted that there was an “extremely big push” from DICE to bring battle royale to the sequel. “It’s a good sign when it comes from pure passion.” But what does he think of Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 which has Blackout, its own take on battle royale?
“It’s interesting times. We’re all game developers but also gamers. Looking forward to seeing where it takes us.” Treyarch hasn’t discussed much about Blackout either, instead confirming vehicles, a large map and all known characters in the Black Ops franchise. Even the player count remains relatively undecided till now.
Battlefield 5 is out on October 19th for Xbox One, PS4 and PC. Battle royale will be available post-launch.