EA Considers Battlefield Release Delay Amidst Industry Competition

2025 is shaping up to be a massive year for AAA video games. The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its exclusives will compete with a strong lineup of anticipated titles, including Borderlands 4, Mafia: The Old Country, Ghost of Tsushima, and the next Call of Duty installment (likely October/November). However, the biggest contender remains Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 6, currently slated for a Fall 2025 release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

The uncertainty surrounding GTA 6's release, combined with the other major shooters launching, presents a significant challenge for EA's Battlefield, planned for release before April 2026. This timeframe directly overlaps with potential release windows for GTA 6, Call of Duty, and Borderlands 4.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson acknowledged the competitive landscape and the possibility of delaying Battlefield in a recent financial call. He emphasized the significant investment in this Battlefield installment, involving four studios and extensive development time. Wilson stated that EA aims to launch Battlefield when it can fulfill its potential and build a substantial player base, suggesting a willingness to adjust the release date based on the competitive environment. He described 2025 as a "nuanced year" regarding competition, implying a potential shift in their launch strategy.

A hypothetical November 2025 release for Battlefield could be impacted by a simultaneous GTA 6 launch. EA might postpone Battlefield to Q1 2026, remaining within its fiscal year. Conversely, a potential GTA 6 delay to Q1 2026 could lead EA to either advance or further delay Battlefield, a significant decision they appear prepared to make.

The industry is keenly awaiting Rockstar's official GTA 6 release date announcement. This will undoubtedly influence the release strategies of other major titles, including Battlefield.