EA Boss Willing to Move Battlefield Release Date to Account for 'Nuanced Year Relative to Competition' (*Cough* GTA 6 *Cough*)

2025 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for AAA video games. The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its exclusive titles will compete with a strong lineup of anticipated releases, including Borderlands 4, Mafia: The Old Country, Ghost of Tsushima, and the next Call of Duty installment (likely October/November). However, the biggest game looming is Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto 6, currently slated for Fall 2025 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

The uncertainty surrounding GTA 6's release (potential delays notwithstanding) alongside other major shooter releases presents a significant challenge for EA's upcoming Battlefield title. EA's fiscal year 2026 launch window (before April 2026) directly overlaps with the potential release windows of GTA 6, Call of Duty, and Borderlands 4.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson acknowledged the competitive landscape and the potential for a Battlefield delay during a recent financial call. He emphasized the significant investment in the new Battlefield game, involving four studios and extensive development time. Wilson stated that EA aims for a launch that maximizes the game's potential and fosters a large player base. He admitted that the competitive landscape in 2025 might necessitate a reassessment of the launch timing, leaving open the possibility of delaying the game beyond the FY26 window if necessary.

99 Details in the GTA 6 Trailer - Slideshow

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Currently, Battlefield is targeted for release before April 2026. A November 2025 release (mirroring the launch dates of Battlefield 2042 and Battlefield 5) could lead to a strategic shift if GTA 6 launches concurrently. EA might postpone Battlefield to Q1 2026, remaining within its fiscal year. Conversely, a GTA 6 delay to Q1 2026 could prompt EA to either advance or delay Battlefield's release, potentially pushing it into the following fiscal year. Wilson's comments suggest EA is prepared for such strategic adjustments.

The industry awaits Rockstar's official GTA 6 release date announcement. This announcement, whether confirming the Fall 2025 release or announcing a delay, will significantly influence the release strategies of other major titles, including Battlefield.