Battlefield 2042 just wrapped up its open beta, which offered up the classic Conquest experience on the new Orbital map. But DICE isn’t planning on keeping Battlefield 2042 completely traditional. There are two additional modes coming to the FPS, Portal and Hazard Zone.
The latter of those two, Hazard Zone, has finally been detailed, giving us insight into this unique first-ever mode for the franchise. It turns out that what we have coming is Battlefield’s take on the gameplay mechanics popularized by games such as The Division, Hunt: Showdown, and Escape From Tarkov.
Hazard Zone is a PvPvE mode wherein eight 4-player squads are tasked with retrieving and extracting with critical Data Drives. Players will need to carefully select their Operator, as squads are not allowed to have duplicate selections. You needn’t worry about a team of four Mckay’s grappling all around you. Furthermore, weapons and Tactical Upgrades will need to be purchased with the Dark Market Credits (DMC) currency before dropping in.
The massive map will host certain types of aid, such as ammo stations and Uplinks, the second of which offers call-ins. Exploration can yield one of these powerful items, including the ever-helpful robo-dog, Ranger.
Much like the games it pulls inspiration from, Hazard Zone isn’t all about engaging enemies to be the last squad standing. Theoretically, you could win the match without firing a single bullet. Remember, the objective is to secure intel and escape, not seek out firefights. With only two extraction opportunities available at different LZs, chances are you will encounter other players or hostile AI-controlled Occupying Forces at some point. And should you fall to either, you can say goodbye to those hard-earned Dark Market Credits.
All in all, Battlefield 2042‘s Hazard Zone is sounding like an exciting addition to the series’ staple modes. We won’t have to wait too much longer to see how it fits into DICE’s new mold.
Battlefield 2042 will release on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S on November 19th.
