A substantial number of Battlefield 6 open beta players have been found to be gaming on or around the minimum recommended specifications, according to insights shared by technical director Christian Buhl. In a recent interview with Eurogamer, Buhl highlighted key user data regarding the initial wave of PC players who engaged with the game earlier this month. He noted that among the millions of players who joined the open beta, a significant portion was utilizing lower-end hardware.
Discussing the extensive efforts made by Battlefield Studios and EA to ensure the game remains playable on older setups, Buhl stated: “We built maps and had to collaborate with our artists and tech artists to adjust these maps for better performance.” He emphasized the commitment to set performance targets that cater to both minimum and ultra specifications, ensuring that players can enjoy the experience intended by the developers. This approach aims to deliver a consistent gaming experience, regardless of the hardware capabilities.
When asked about the significance of catering to minimum specification players amidst rising PC hardware costs, Buhl remarked, “Minimum specification is certainly one of our most important specs. It’s crucial from both a commercial and business perspective—we want as many players as possible enjoying the game.” This statement underscores the developers' strategic focus on accessibility, especially during a time when players face economic challenges and inflated hardware prices.
Buhl shared an anecdote from the development phase, revealing that extensive analyses and tests were conducted across a wide range of hardware—both above and below the game's minimum and recommended specifications. The goal was to identify the necessary benchmarks to capture a broad audience on PC. Buhl indicated that this focus on inclusivity has been “super critical” for the game’s success.
In a follow-up discussion, Buhl was unable to specify the exact percentage of players operating at or near the minimum specifications but referred to it as a “meaningful percentage.” He also acknowledged a segment of players using hardware below the minimum requirements, pointing out the existence of this group as noteworthy. Following the interview, EA PR refrained from providing exact figures but reiterated Buhl’s claim of a substantial number of players in this category.
The current landscape of affordable computing in the USA, which is Battlefield 6's primary market, is particularly tumultuous. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has rendered high-end hardware prices unaffordable for many gaming enthusiasts. Additionally, current political policies have significantly impacted international trade, further complicating the situation for prospective players looking to upgrade their systems.
