Saying thatBattlefield 2042has some problems in its current state would be an understatement. Players have been quick to point out the missing features from pastBattlefieldgames, while critics have called out the questionable switch to Specialists and the many bugs that are currently plaguing the latest entry in the series. However, the Portal mode forBattlefield 2042has proven to be a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing release.
BattlefieldPortal creations have ranged fromSquid Game-inspired modesto proper wingsuit training courses, and fans have only just begun pushing the creation tool to its limits. One of the best things aboutBattlefieldPortal is that it features content from past games likeBattlefield 3,Battlefield: Bad Company 2, andBattlefield 1942, with players able to mix and match the vehicles and weapons from every era. It would be nice to seeBattlefield 1shown some love, too, with plenty of potential content able to be introduced and combined with some more modern technology.
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Battlefield 1’s Operations Mode
WhileBattlefield 1offered the series’ belovedConquest mode, the real star of the show was Operations. The mode featured sequences of two or three maps set in similar parts of the world, with players fighting through a few cities or two desert locations back-to-back. These connected matches brought a slight narrative to the game’s multiplayer, as players felt like they were fighting in a proper, lengthy battle as opposed to one quick match in a video game.
The goal of Operations was to push forward to the next map, with Attackers needing to capture zones and Defenders needing to reduce their tickets to zero. Essentially, Operations was several matches of Breakthrough put together into a one-hour-long experience. WithBreakthrough already existing inBattlefield 2042, it would likely not be too difficult to introduce Operations through an update to Portal.
While Operations was certainly a bit easier for the Defenders than the Attackers, the concept of a match that is progressively building to a big finale is exciting. Winning a long Operations match could provide more battle pass XP onceBattlefield 2042’s Seasons begin, giving players some extra motivation to focus their efforts on getting a win for their team. WhileBattlefield 5’s Grand Operationswas unbalanced and considered a letdown, the original Operations mode seen inBattlefield 1was excellent, providing some of the best experiences in the 2016 game. As such, it would be a must have feature if DICE were to pull fromBattlefield 1with future Portal additions.
Battlefield 1’s Standout Maps
BattlefieldPortal also features someclassicBattlefieldmaps, and while it would make sense to add more locations fromBattlefield: Bad Company 2andBattlefield 3, it would also be nice to see some maps fromBattlefield 1return. Assuming other content from the World War 1-themed shooter makes its way to the game, bringing back some of its best maps seems like a no-brainer. Fortunately, there is a good number of maps to choose from, as theBattlefield 1lineup was solid.
St. Quentin Scar is one map that should absolutely make a comeback, as its setting of a war-torn countryside made for one of the most visually stunning play spaces in the game. Large fields led to some easy targets for those who enjoysniping inBattlefieldgames, while setting the objectives around buildings and in trenches allowed close-up gunfights to be entertaining. Monte Grappe was another beautiful map set in the Venetian Alps, with the verticality of the hills proving to be particularly memorable. The tight tunnels were fun to fight through since they served as a major change of pace, while the fortress seen at the end of an Operations match was iconic.
Argonne Forest is another memorable map, as it sawBattlefield 1playersfighting around a bunch of trees. Reminiscent of DICE’s Endor maps from the newerStar Wars Battlefronttitles, this was a great map for those who prefer infantry combat in theirBattlefieldgames. Amiens’ unique city setting made it another standout, as it showcased the game’s destruction and gave all playstyles a chance to thrive. Sinai Desert was a bit more divisive, but as one of the game’s most recognizable maps, it would also make sense for it to return. With so many options available to DICE,Battlefield 1’s maps deserve to make a comeback.
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Battlefield 1’s Weapons and Vehicles
Finally,Battlefield 1’s old school weaponry and tanks would be great to see included inside of Portal. Much like how theBattlefield 1942content stands out from the more modern titles,Battlefield 1’s gadgetsand gear would be a memorable addition. While there are plenty of genuinely good weapons to bring back, like the M1907 and Gewehr, it would also be nice to see something fun like the Kolibri return, as players loved messing around with the world’s smallest pistol.
When it comes to vehicles, the tanks and jeeps are obvious inclusions, though it would be exciting to seeBattlefield 1’s horses make a comeback as well. This “vehicle” type was a lot of fun to use, as players could speed across the map on the animals. They also wielded a sword while on horseback, and it was a lot of fun to cut down enemies with the blade before continuing on to a destination. On top of being one of the most unique traversal options in franchise history, the horses being added could open up some opportunities for funBattlefieldPortal creations, as horses would give creators another unique mechanic to play around with.
Finally, and most importantly, areBattlefield 1’s zeppelins. The massive blimps were a key attraction whenever they appeared, as players had to focus AA gun fire and launcher shots to bring down the floating vehicles. Jumping off of them was thrilling, as was fighting on top. The zeppelin gunner could deal serious damage, too, with the blimps being one of the best examples of howBattlefield 1used its setting to the fullest. Much like horses, adding in these huge vehicles would allow for some clever Portal creations that are not possible with the current lineup of content.
Battlefield 2042is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
