Editing MEANS (section)

=== Battlefield 2042 ===
'''Type: Big Team'''

'''Format: FPS'''

While plainly cut from the same cloth as BF4 (and sharing a similarly sloppy launch), Battlefield 2042 is most glaringly plagued by a number of underbaked features -- most notably broken server browsing / setup, and an inability to join 128 player servers with more than 4-player groups. The potential is there, but it’ll only become a LAN staple if those issues are addressed.

'''Moments: 7.5'''

'''Energy: 7'''

Parts of BF4’s success are readily visible in BF2042. Action is fast, fluid, chaotic, and invites a variety of playstyles and general silliness. Vehicles are tougher nuts to crack in 2042, which is somewhat stifling, but the biggest issue is not being able to play with (or against) fellow LAN attendees as readily. Update (2022/4): It’s easier to play on LAN, score adjusted slightly.

'''Accessibility: 3'''

BF2042 requires either a $60 purchase or a $10/mo subscription, redlines even the latest and greatest hardware, and is prone to broken installations and bugs that test even the most devoted fan. In around a year it’ll probably be great, but right now it’s very rough.

Update (2022/4): A few rounds of patches have drastically improved the ability to join friends in play. It’s still not quite to BF4 levels, but it’s better than it was.

'''Novelty: 2'''

Without a working server browser or an easy way to launch custom Portal modes with friends, BF2042 is limited to its competent All-Out Warfare modes (Conquest and “Definitely Not Rush”), and a confusing co-op Escape From Tarkov-like that may or may not be any good.

'''Simplicity: 4'''

Similar to BF4, though with a more limited armory and changes that have added more of a learning curve. Character-specific abilities take some getting used to (though team identification isn’t too bad), and the “plus menu” means of handling weapon attachments can be confusing for new players.