Star Wars Battlefront 2 has been on quite the rollercoaster journey since its rocky debut in 2017. Initially, the game was met with widespread criticism due to a problematic single-player campaign and a multiplayer experience bogged down by aggressive microtransactions and loot boxes. However, fast forward to 2025, and the tide has turned dramatically for this DICE-developed shooter, now celebrated as one of the quintessential Star Wars gaming experiences.
Back in 2021, Battlefront 2's player base on Steam peaked at 10,489 concurrent players. This number seemed impressive at the time but was soon dwarfed by a surge in 2025. In May, coinciding with the finale of Andor Season 2 and the beloved Star Wars holiday, May the Fourth, the game hit a new all-time high of 18,634 simultaneous players. The momentum didn’t stop there. On June 20 or 21, 2025, SteamDB reported an astonishing 20,311 concurrent players, shattering previous records once again. This resurgence is largely credited to a passionate community campaigning for a third Battlefront game and a generous 90% discount on Steam, making the title available for just $3.99 USD until June 26.
Despite the growing player enthusiasm, Electronic Arts (EA), the game’s publisher, has shown little interest in greenlighting a sequel. Following their cancellation of the upcoming Black Panther game in May 2025, EA announced a strategic focus on key franchises such as Battlefield, The Sims, Skate, and Apex Legends. Although EA continues to support Motive’s new Iron Man game and a third Star Wars: Jedi installment from Respawn Entertainment, the Battlefront series was notably absent from their roadmap. This decision has frustrated fans, but it appears unlikely that EA will reverse course anytime soon.
Interestingly, some former developers share the community’s enthusiasm. Mats Helge Holm, who worked on the 2015 and 2017 Battlefront titles, expressed a desire to reunite with his ex-colleagues to create Star Wars Battlefront 3. Unfortunately, as Holm pointed out, the ultimate decision rests with EA, the intellectual property owners.
For those who have stuck with Battlefront 2 or are just joining now, 2025 offers an exceptional experience. The game has undergone a remarkable transformation since launch. Gone are the days of intrusive microtransactions and loot boxes that once marred progression. The current version is microtransaction-free, with the "Celebration Edition" unlocking most skins and cosmetic items upfront, allowing players to enjoy content without feeling pressured to spend real money. This shift marks a dramatic departure from the original, heavily monetized model and has been warmly welcomed by the community.
The content breadth is impressive. DICE has continuously expanded the game, adding new maps, modes, and hero characters that span the Republic, Rebellion, and Resistance eras. Players can now enjoy iconic heroes like Obi-Wan Kenobi, General Grievous, Count Dooku, and even the rolling, shielded Droidekas. The grind to unlock these heroes has been removed, making them more accessible and enhancing gameplay variety.
Gameplay modes offer something for every type of player. From the intense 4v4 Heroes and Villains battles to the horror-themed Ewok Hunt, which adds a fresh, extraction-style twist, the variety keeps the game engaging. Classic modes like Starfighter Assault, Strike, Blast, and Extraction provide options for both large and small teams, balancing objective-based and kill-based gameplay. The maps themselves are visually stunning and immersive, with locations like the crashed Star Destroyer from The Force Awakens adding a cinematic feel to battles.
At its core, Battlefront 2 delivers solid shooting mechanics that have stood the test of time. Weapons feel satisfying, combining weight and fluidity to make every shot meaningful. Vehicle controls, once a sticking point, have improved significantly, offering fun and competitive gameplay whether piloting aircraft or ground vehicles. The sound design is particularly noteworthy, capturing the essence of the Star Wars universe with detailed audio cues—from blaster fire to the ominous breathing of Kylo Ren. This auditory immersion enhances the overall experience, making players feel truly part of a galaxy far, far away.
While the game has made great strides, some minor issues remain. The menus and progression systems could use refinement. Players must exit server queues to upgrade skills, and in-game progression markers, known as milestones, aren’t visible during matches. Such quirks suggest that certain features were simplified or removed during updates, but these are relatively small complaints in an otherwise polished package.
Accessibility has improved as well. With EA Play and significant discounts, Battlefront 2 is easier and cheaper to access than ever before. This affordability, combined with the game’s revitalized state, has helped fuel the recent player surge. The community’s dedication is clear, not only in numbers but in their ongoing campaign for a sequel that EA has yet to endorse.
The story of Star Wars Battlefront 2 is one of redemption. From a launch marred by controversy and backlash to a 2025 revival celebrated by fans and critics alike, it’s a testament to the resilience of both the game and its community. Whether you’re a longtime player or a newcomer intrigued by the recent buzz, now is the perfect time to jump into the trenches of Hoth, the forests of Endor, or the skies above Geonosis.
As Mats Helge Holm’s hopeful words remind us, the passion for Battlefront 3 still burns bright among those who helped craft the beloved series. For now, Battlefront 2 stands as a shining example of how a game can evolve and find its place in the hearts of players, years after its initial launch. And who knows? With such a dedicated fanbase, the future might still hold new adventures in this galaxy far, far away.
