EA has officially rolled out Update 8.5.0 for Battlefield 2042, introducing a series of quality-of-life improvements aimed at enhancing the overall gameplay experience. One of the standout changes in this update is a significant visual overhaul of the loading screens across all game modes, making them more informative and visually appealing. And while this update brings various fixes and refinements, EA has assured players that more improvements are still in the pipeline.

A Look Back: Battlefield 2042’s Evolution

When Battlefield 2042 first launched in 2021, it was met with heavy criticism due to a variety of technical issues and missing features that left many longtime fans disappointed. However, over the years, the developers have put in considerable effort to refine the game, rolling out numerous updates to improve both gameplay mechanics and technical stability.

Fast forward to January 2025, EA released a major update that added two new vehicles—the M3A3 Bradley and BMP-2—along with additional game modes such as Frontlines Unlocked and Conquest Unlocked. Even though development efforts are shifting toward the next installment in the Battlefield series, currently referred to as Battlefield 6, EA has continued to support Battlefield 2042 with ongoing updates. The newly launched 8.5.0 patch is the latest effort to keep the game fresh and polished for its player base.

What’s New in Update 8.5.0?

The 8.5.0 update is now live across all platforms and brings a variety of refinements to enhance the user experience. Below are the key highlights of this patch:

Loading Screen Overhaul

One of the most noticeable changes in this update is the redesigned loading screens. All game modes now feature updated visuals with clearer descriptions and iconography, making it easier for players to understand each mode’s rules before jumping into a match. These enhancements have also been extended to Custom Experiences in Battlefield Portal, where creators now have additional space to describe their custom game modes. EA has confirmed that even more updates to the loading screens will be introduced in future patches, with further details to be shared via the game’s official social media and Discord channels.

Bug Fixes and Gameplay Improvements

Alongside the visual enhancements, this update brings several important bug fixes and gameplay refinements:

• Deploy Screen Fixes: One of the more annoying bugs involving overlapping input prompts on the deploy screen has now been resolved.
• AI Adjustments: AI soldiers should no longer randomly die when moving out of bounds in shipwreck areas.
• Vehicle Enhancements:
  • A new insertion sequence has been added for the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, improving immersion.
  • Camera transitions when switching seats in vehicles are now much smoother.
  • Fixed an issue where projectiles would despawn when fired from above the maximum air vehicle height.
• Progression Fixes: Players who had completed all levels before purchasing the Accelerated Event Pass were previously unable to buy it. This issue has now been fixed, ensuring that rewards can be properly claimed.

The Future of Battlefield 2042 and What’s Next

While Battlefield 2042 is still receiving updates, EA is shifting its focus to the next Battlefield installment. The upcoming game is being developed by Criterion, EA Motive, and Ripple Effect, with DICE leading the project as the franchise’s largest development team to date. EA has stated that the new Battlefield title is expected to launch within its 2026 fiscal year, which runs from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.

For now, though, Battlefield 2042 players can continue enjoying regular updates that improve the game’s stability and gameplay experience. With more refinements expected in future patches, the game still has plenty to offer for fans who are sticking around while awaiting the next big chapter in the franchise.

Battlefield 2042 Update 8.5.0 Patch Notes

Loading Screen Improvements

• Redesigned loading screens for all game modes, with improved descriptions and visual indicators for each mode’s rules.
• Enhanced loading screens for Custom Experiences in Battlefield Portal, giving creators more space for descriptions.
• EA has confirmed that additional improvements will come in future updates.

General Fixes

• Fixed an issue where overlapping input prompts appeared on the deploy screen.

AI Fixes

• AI soldiers will no longer die out of bounds when fighting near shipwreck areas.

Vehicle Fixes and Improvements

• Added an insertion sequence for the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
• Smoother camera transitions when switching seats in vehicles.
• Fixed a bug where projectiles disappeared when fired above the maximum air vehicle height.

Progression Fixes

• Fixed an issue preventing players from purchasing the Accelerated Event Pass if all levels had already been completed before purchase.

Final Thoughts

Update 8.5.0 might not be the biggest patch Battlefield 2042 has ever received, but it brings some welcome refinements that improve the game’s usability and overall experience. The revamped loading screens make it easier to understand game modes at a glance, while the various bug fixes help smooth out some frustrating issues players have encountered.

With the next Battlefield game on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how much longer EA continues supporting Battlefield 2042. But for now, fans can still enjoy the steady flow of improvements as the game heads into its next phase.