Why Battlefield Needs to Embrace What Call of Duty is Not

Ever since the early 2000s, Battlefield and Call of Duty have been the top contenders in the world of military shooter games. Fans of each series have passionately debated their differences for countless hours. Although the two franchises have distinct styles, they are often seen as rivals, and it’s hard to imagine that they don’t influence each other’s game designs.

This intense rivalry has prompted both games to emphasize their unique features, but it has also led to some mimicry, especially when one tries to adopt the other’s traits. Battlefield 2042 is a prime example. A while back, it sparked controversy by introducing over-the-top weapon and character skins that seemed out of place. Dedicated players were quick to criticize these additions as a misguided attempt to imitate games like Warzone and Fortnite, which thrive on quirky and unexpected designs. While not every player was upset by this departure from tradition, it was enough for the developers at DICE to rethink their approach to the game’s identity.

### Embracing Authentic Military Atmosphere Could Propel Battlefield Forward

Within the gaming community, there’s a clear expectation that military-themed games won’t provide a perfect simulation of real-world combat, particularly when crafted by major developers like those behind Battlefield. However, the franchise has always been celebrated for its realistic and gritty experience, setting it apart from Call of Duty, a game that has continually embraced more fantastical and outrageous elements. This evolution in Call of Duty is most obvious with its lineup of famous multiplayer skins, featuring characters like Nicki Minaj and Snoop Dogg, as well as quirky designs like “Bath Time” or “Jigsaw.”

Despite these whimsical additions being generally accepted by Call of Duty players—perhaps due to the franchise’s gradual move away from realism starting with game modes like Zombies in World at War—Battlefield remains a safe haven for those yearning for a more genuine military shooter that doesn’t sacrifice contemporary gaming elements. Instances of Battlefield adopting less realistic elements, such as the Santa Claus skin in 2042, often provoke criticism for being trend-followers rather than trendsetters.

### Capturing Call of Duty Enthusiasts Through Realism

Although Call of Duty enthusiasts may enjoy the silly and elaborate skins, they are not without their detractors. For some, characters that glow in the dark, resemble cartoons, or portray celebrities can detract from the military shooter experience that they expect, even as the series drifts away from its roots. It’s jarring to see a figure like Nicki Minaj in a supposed military context.

Another concern is that these flashy cosmetics can appear as pandering moves, tempting players with familiar figures to boost profits. In the context of a persistent online environment like Warzone, such cultural references can offer a superficial means of self-expression: players can embody a beloved celebrity, but this experience is fleeting and superficial, designed more to extract in-game purchases than to enhance genuine player connection.

Many Call of Duty players today feel this frustration and may seek an alternative. By maintaining its dedication to a more authentic military experience, Battlefield could be the ideal option for these disenchanted players.