Despite early gameplay previews generating hype for Battlefield 6, the upcoming entry in the iconic shooter franchise has already landed in hot water with its community. A new developer update from DICE has detailed sweeping changes to the game’s class system—and fans are not happy.
At the core of the controversy is a move away from traditional class-locked weapons. While Battlefield 6 technically retains its familiar classes, weapons are now no longer exclusive to specific roles. Instead, DICE has introduced “signature weapons” that grant bonus effects when used by the intended class, but players are still free to equip any weapon across all roles.
“Weapon Loadouts: Fully customizable weapon loadouts allow you the freedom to play the way you want,” DICE explained in a recent blog post. “Play to the strengths of your class by using your signature weapons, or easily switch to any other weapon to meet the needs of your squad.”
This design decision means that, for example, a Recon player gets enhanced breath control while using sniper rifles, but any other class can still equip the same sniper rifles without the bonus. Each class also retains unique Signature Traits (like Recon auto-spotting enemies when aiming down sights) and Signature Gadgets—class-specific tools to support their role. Additionally, Default Weapon Packages provide ready-made loadouts for convenience.
However, the move has sparked strong criticism across social media. Many players argue the system strips away class identity and promotes lone-wolf, jack-of-all-trades gameplay, a direction that already proved divisive in Battlefield 2042.
Community reactions highlight a broader concern: the dilution of strategic teamplay that once defined the Battlefield experience. With no meaningful weapon restrictions, critics fear the class system feels superficial and fails to encourage squad cohesion.
Whether DICE will respond to the mounting backlash remains to be seen. But with Battlefield 6 still in testing, there’s time for the studio to adjust—assuming they listen to the feedback flooding in.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
