Electronic Arts (EA) is reportedly considering shifting the release date of the next Battlefield game, with speculation growing that the move is to avoid clashing with Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6). With Rockstar’s highly anticipated open-world blockbuster set for a Fall 2025 release, EA appears to be reassessing the best launch window for Battlefield to ensure the game isn’t overshadowed.
This news comes after EA CEO Andrew Wilson stated in a recent earnings call that the company is open to adjusting Battlefield’s release date if needed.
EA’s Strategy: Avoiding a GTA 6 Collision
EA originally planned to launch the next Battlefield game sometime within Fiscal Year 2026 (April 2025 – March 2026). However, with GTA 6 locked in for late 2025, EA is willing to be flexible to ensure Battlefield doesn’t get lost in the hype.
What EA Said About Battlefield’s Release Window
During the earnings call, Andrew Wilson hinted at a potential delay:
“There may be some things happening in the year that may cause us to think differently about our launch timing.”
While Wilson didn’t directly mention GTA 6, it’s clear that Rockstar’s juggernaut release is influencing EA’s decision-making.
Why Would EA Move Battlefield’s Release?
- GTA 6 Is a Sales Giant – Rockstar’s last game, GTA V, has sold over 195 million copies, making it one of the biggest entertainment releases in history.
- Massive Player Attention – When GTA 6 drops, it will likely dominate gaming discussions, social media, and online communities for months, making it tough for any game to compete.
- Battlefield’s Reputation Needs Rebuilding – Battlefield 2042 suffered a disastrous launch, and EA wants to ensure the next entry is given time to shine rather than being buried under GTA hype.
Wilson emphasized that if EA doesn’t feel the timing is right, they won’t hesitate to delay the game to a better launch window.
The Future of Battlefield
EA and DICE are betting big on the next Battlefield, calling it “the biggest Battlefield game ever.”
- The game is reportedly in full development, with multiple studios working together to ensure a polished release.
- EA has been investing heavily in Battlefield’s future, including bringing in former Call of Duty talent to help with its development.
- The goal is to re-establish Battlefield as a dominant FPS competitor, especially after Battlefield 2042’s rocky launch.
With the next Call of Duty, Halo, and other FPS competitors also in the mix, EA must carefully pick its moment to drop Battlefield back into the spotlight.
