Battlefield 2042 is experiencing a major resurgence in player activity, thanks to a surprise content update and exclusive rewards tied to the upcoming release of Battlefield 6.
Following the end of Battlefield 6’s second and final open beta weekend, DICE rolled out update 9.2 for Battlefield 2042 on August 18. The update introduced new weapons, vehicles, and a free 60-tier battle pass. Players can earn rewards for both Battlefield 2042 and items that will carry over into Battlefield 6 once it launches on October 10.
The move has paid off quickly, with Battlefield 2042 surpassing 20,000 concurrent Steam players for the first time in nearly a year—more than doubling its usual peak of under 10,000. Many of the cosmetics in the free battle pass are drawn from classic Battlefield titles, giving longtime fans further incentive to return.
The player spike is not limited to Steam alone, with similar boosts expected across all platforms as Battlefield fans revisit 2042 while awaiting the next entry. The free battle pass is available until October 7, giving players a limited window to unlock rewards and prepare for the series’ future.
