What to know

  • Digital Foundry praises the Battlefield 6 open beta for its high polish and "shippable" state, marking a significant improvement over past titles.
  • Console performance shines on PS5/PS5 Pro with stable 60fps and enhanced ray tracing, though Xbox Series X shows minor dips.
  • PC version excels in lighting and visuals, with community excitement building ahead of Gamescom 2025 reveals.

The anticipation for Battlefield 6 has been building since its announcement earlier this year, and the ongoing open beta has given players a tantalizing taste of what's to come.

Digital Foundry, the go-to experts for in-depth technical analysis of games, recently released their breakdown of the beta, and the verdict is overwhelmingly positive. They describe it as "exceptionally impressive" and "very shippable," highlighting significant improvements over previous entries in the series like Battlefield 2042, which faced criticism for its launch issues.

This beta, now in its second weekend, showcases DICE's commitment to polish, with stunning visuals, robust performance across consoles, and innovative features that push the boundaries of multiplayer shooters.

Performance Across Consoles: Solid Frames and Stunning Destruction

Digital Foundry's testing focused on the PS5, PS5 Pro, and Xbox Series X|S, revealing a game that's already running smoothly even in its beta phase. On PS5 in Performance Mode, the game maintains a stable 60fps with dynamic resolution scaling, though it can appear a bit blurry during intense action. The PS5 Pro version takes it up a notch, offering enhanced ray tracing for reflections and global illumination, resulting in more realistic lighting and shadows that elevate the battlefield's chaotic beauty. Xbox Series X performs admirably but shows slightly worse frame rates in demanding scenarios compared to its PlayStation counterparts, possibly due to optimization differences—something forums are buzzing about as the "Xbox tax."

One standout feature is the destruction system. Unlike earlier games that relied on pre-defined breaking points, Battlefield 6 uses a state-based approach where buildings crumble dynamically based on damage levels. This creates more immersive and unpredictable environments, from collapsing skyscrapers to debris-filled streets, all rendered with impressive detail. Digital Foundry notes that while it's not fully physics-based like some competitors, it strikes a great balance between spectacle and performance efficiency.

PC Highlights: Lighting and Ray Tracing Shine

For PC players, the beta is a showcase of advanced tech. Digital Foundry praises the lighting system, which uses software-based ray tracing options that look phenomenal without tanking frame rates on mid-range hardware. There's room for growth—ray tracing isn't fully implemented yet, and some users report minor stuttering—but overall, it's a step up from Battlefield 2042's troubled PC port. High-end rigs can push for 4K with ultra settings, delivering visuals that rival cinematic experiences.

Community Buzz and What's Next

The positive reception isn't just from tech analysts; X (formerly Twitter) is abuzz with players sharing their experiences. Posts highlight fun gameplay sessions and excitement for the full release, with many echoing Digital Foundry's sentiments on the beta's readiness. Gamescom 2025, kicking off next week, is expected to reveal more details, including potential campaign modes and cross-play enhancements.

In a series that has seen highs and lows, Battlefield 6's beta suggests DICE is back on form. With its blend of massive-scale battles, technical prowess, and player feedback integration, this could be the comeback fans have been waiting for. If you're in the beta, dive in—it's already feeling like a winner.