Best Battlefield Game: 2024’s Ultimate Ranking Guide
The Battlefield series has been right at the heart of first-person shooters for quite some time, since the release of Battlefield 1942 in 2002. Iconic large-scale battles, team-focused gameplay, and pure variety of experience have made it a franchise to remember for players for over two decades, doing anything from dogfighting in jets to leading tank assaults or even simple flag capturing with your squad.
But honestly, not every game of the series has been up to par. Some have been memorable classics, while others have fallen flat. We have you covered if you’re trying to figure out which games are worth your time and energy. In this guide, we’ll rank the best Battlefield games based on gameplay, innovation, multi-player features, and how the player base received them.
These rankings come from personal experience and hardcore Battlefield fans’ input. If you’re all set to reliving those good old days, check out Eneba.com, for incredible deals on the greatest titles available. From chaotic battles to heart-pounding moments with your squad, let’s dive into the series and find out which Battlefield game stands out. Ready to find your next favorite? Let’s get started!
How We Determined the Best Battlefield Games
When it comes to ranking the best Battlefield games, we didn’t want to rely on just reviews or sales numbers. This series has been such a big part of the gaming world that it felt important to break things down thoughtfully. To be fair and objective, we considered a mix of factors that make or break a Battlefield experience.
First, gameplay mechanics and innovation were a big focus. Each game has brought something new to the table, whether it’s destructible environments or advanced squad systems. Next was the multiplayer experience, let’s be honest, that’s the heart of Battlefield. A game’s ability to bring players together and create memorable moments is huge.
We also looked at storylines in the single-player campaigns. Even though multiplayer often takes the spotlight, the campaigns add depth and emotion to the series. Visuals and sound design were key too, there’s nothing like hearing jets roar overhead or feeling the chaos of an explosion nearby. Lastly, replayability mattered because no game can truly stand out if you don’t feel like coming back to it.
Our goal was to create a list that reflects the best parts of the series while staying grounded in what makes these games unforgettable for players everywhere.
Best Battlefield Games Ranked
This list isn’t just our personal favorites in a guide but what the fans love too and what makes a particular title stand out. We have ranked this list carefully according to the gameplay, community engagement, innovation, and replayability.
You may be finding your first Battlefield game to play or are just nostalgic, this guide will make you rediscover why Battlefield is iconic. Let’s dive into celebrating some of its finest moments and see why the games have managed to redefine large-scale warfare as a franchise over the years.
1. Battlefield 3
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 9.7/10 | 2011 | Windows, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 | ~6-8 hours (campaign) | 5 |
Battlefield 3 is the best game in the series in our opinion, and that of most fans. Thanks to the Frostbite 2 engine, Battlefield 3’s breathtaking graphics and dynamics completely changed the series. With a gripping story full of twists and turns, all fans were immediately hooked and finished its relatively short story in one sitting (including us). On the other hand, its multiplayer with brutal ground and aerial combat, falling skyscrapers, and havoc on all sides make it a fond memory in every player’s heart. To this day, fans of the series go back to their roots and have fun playing this game.
2. Battlefield 2: Bad Company 2
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 9.5/10 | 2010 | Windows, PS3, Xbox 360, Android, iOS | ~10-15 hours | 1 |
The main events of Battlefield: Bad Company 2 occur in 1944. Private Preston Marlowe, the protagonist of the first title. Additionally, Sweetwater, Haggard, and Sergeant Redford continue to be at the heart of the narrative. The Frostbite 1.5 engine used in the game gave players additional freedom to explore the world by enabling them to take on and destroy huge buildings. Its deep story, modern-era weapons, revolutionary graphics, and chaotic multiplayer with renowned maps make this one of the best Battlefield games in history. While the initial story is around 7-8 hours, its DLC ‘Vietnam’ and max achievement run give players plenty of content to play. It is surprisingly available on mobile phones too.
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3. Battlefield 2
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 9.2/10 | 2016 | Windows, PS4, Xbox One | ~8-12 hours | 4 |
Getting into our top 3 is Battlefield 2, which set the stage for future Battlefield games. Before Call of Duty, it aimed for a modern fighting environment and included new elements including 64-player multiplayer games and a bullet penetration mechanism. The Commander mode, a strategic position that allows one person to lead a fight and make decisions from above, was a standout feature of the multiplayer. In addition, they acted as a moving spawn point which meant new strategies were made on the move. Adding new perks to the three classes was the cherry on top.
4. Battlefield 1
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 9/10 | 2016 | Windows, PS4, Xbox One | ~8-12 hours | 4 |
Launched in 2016, Battlefield 1 sends us into the mess of World War I, in a heartfelt and harrowing take on “The Great War.” The single-player war stories take us into personal stories of bravery, while multiplayer focuses on teamwork over huge maps with dynamic destruction and authentic WWI weapons. Innovations like Operations mode added to the immersion, and the Frostbite engine produced stunning visuals and sound quality. Fans and critics liked its fantastic setting and emotional impact, though many wanted to see more campaign content which they did in future updates. This is an ideal title for FPS enthusiasts and anyone who wants to start with the Battlefield franchise.
5. Battlefield 1942
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 8.7/10 | 2002 | Windows, Mac OS X | ~10-12 hours (campaign) | 2 |
Battlefield 1942 cemented the franchise as a leader in first-person shooters in 2002 when it took us back to the heart of World War II with large battles across some iconic locations: Stalingrad and Iwo Jima. The broken multiplayer mode introduced players to massive maps that supported up to 64 players emphasizing teamwork with infantry, tanks, planes, and ships. The Refractor engine of this game set new standards for dynamic warfare. It had a steep learning curve but players overlooked it because it brought something new to this genre.
6. Battlefield Vietnam
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time |
| 8.5/10 | 2004 | Windows | ~15 hours |
Battlefield Vietnam beautifully depicts the gruesome reality of the Vietnam War, an iconic war of jungle combat and guerrilla warfare. This 2004 release gave a notable story and multiplayer by offering authentic weapons and vehicles in war-ridden settings. A highly praised feature of the game was infusing 1960s music and vehicle-mounted radios that made an atmosphere like none other. The combination of strategy and action was exhilarating for the gamers, but the lack of content aside from the main story gave little to no reasons for replaying.
7. Battlefield: Bad Company
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time |
| 8.5/10 | 2008 | PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 | ~10 hours |
Battlefield: Bad Company 2008 takes us to more contemporary settings of wars. It follows the lives of a misfit squad of soldiers with a humourous touch. The mix of thrilling missions with destructible environments powered by the Frostbite engine was one of the major innovations at the time. The storyline perfectly intertwines action and comedy, appealing to fans who want interesting characters with tactical gameplay. Its uniqueness was praised for its single-player campaign as well as the strategic depth of multiplayer. The story was a bit short, but additional content kept players busy.
8. Battlefield V
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 7/10 | 2018 | Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One | ~1~20 hours | 7 |
Battlefield V looked promising after the remarkable success of Battlefield 1 but failed to step up to its predecessor’s expectations. Set in World War II, it prioritized telling lesser-known stories through breathtaking visual effects. It also introduced dynamic environments, revamped squad mechanics, and brought its battle royale mode. Battlefield V was praised for its visuals and authentic weapons design, but the reason it is this low on this list is bringing nothing new to the table. Specifically, it resembles Battlefield 1 in many ways, and players criticized it for less content which was later revolved with updates. Overall, Battlefield V is a promising edition to the series!
9. Battlefield 2142
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 7.5/10 | 2006 | Windows, Mac OS X | ~15 hours | 1 |
The only future-based Battlefield Game, it’s set in the year 2142 where ice caps have melted, forcing nations into a full-scale, all-out war for survival and viable pieces of land available. Players were hurled into epic battles, using futuristic heavy weaponry and vehicles. In addition, the introduction of Titan Mode was an instant hit, where strategy and teamwork decided the fate of a massive airship. With its solid class systems and unlockable upgrades, it became a benchmark for sci-fi shooters. Overall, players praised it, but some were disappointed by the limited number of maps.
10. Battlefield Hardline
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 8/10 | 2015 | Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360 | ~12 hours | 5 |
Battlefield Hardline completely drifted from typical warfare and mass-scale military combat of the previous series into the world of cops and gangsters. Campaign-wise, it gave a thrilling and story-driven ride throughout a police officer’s life in this world of betrayal and crime. The multiplayer added exciting gameplay like Heist and Hotwire, blending tactical strategy and high-speed action. While some fans missed the military feel of the series, others enjoyed it because of the new gameplay mechanics and risks. This game is ideal for fans of crime dramas and high-intensity urban combat.
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11. Battlefield 1943
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time |
| 7.5/10 | 2009 | PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 | 15-20 hours |
Battlefield 1943 is a blast, literally and figuratively, taking us back into World War II in the Pacific Theater, offering three iconic maps: Wake Island, Guadalcanal, and Iwo Jima. This multiplayer-only game was available for console players and was big on coordination in the team but still managed to involve dynamic dogfights with planes, vehicles, and even some infantry combat. It is built on the Frostbite 1.5 engine, so destructible environments are included, but admittedly, they were ahead of their time. Players loved it for its accessibility and its fluid controls, despite the game’s extremely mediocre offering of content. Suitable for players fond of action-packed objective-based systems, this game provides the perfect nostalgia that comes with replayability.
12. Battlefield 2042
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 6.5/10 | 2021 | Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox 360 | ~30+ hours | 7 |
The most recent release of the franchise, Battlefield 2042 brings massive 128-player battles to current-gen platforms in a near-future world dominated by climate catastrophes and geopolitical tensions. There is no campaign and the game centers on multiplayer chaos in several modes like Conquest and the new Hazard Zone. The Frostbite engine produces striking visuals, dynamic weather, and large-scale environmental destruction. At its launch, the game was massively criticized for having no campaign mode, many bugs, a lack of content, and removing classes. However, recent updates have brought the game back to its roots making the experience worthwhile.
13. Battlefield 4
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time | Number of Games in Series |
| 7/10 | 2013 | Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360 | ~30+ hours | 9 |
Battlefield 4 pushed first-person shooter boundaries with modern-day warfare fighting as Sgt. Daniel “Reck” Recker also appeared in the Battlefield 3 series. Its single-player campaign was cinematic but not the best, lacking story depth. On the other hand, its multiplayer set the gold standard, complete with large maps, destructible environments, and strategically planned gameplay for up to 64 players. The “Levolution” system, which allows maps to change dynamically, like collapsing skyscrapers was a true innovation. The game received great acclaim for its visuals and immersive gameplay. Initially filled with bugs but those were quickly dealt with. It has since become a fan favorite – best for competitive players in love with dynamic battles.
14. Battlefield 2: Modern Combat
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time |
| 6.5/10 | 2005 | PlayStation 2, Xbox, Xbox 360 | ~15 hours |
Battlefield’s journey on consoles started with the release of Battlefield 2: Modern Combat in 2005. It brought fast-paced modern-era warfare on action-packed maps. However, its main innovation was the ‘’Hot Swap’ mechanic where one player could switch to another squad member in mid-battle, bringing a new flavor to the tactical experience. While it was a single-player game initially, its release on the Xbox 360 brought a 24-player multiplayer mode filled with havoc and action competing in objective-based battles. It was praised as accessible and fun even though it wasn’t as polished as its PC counterpart.
15. Battlefield Heroes
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time |
| 5/10 | 2009 | Windows | 10-20 hours |
Battlefield Heroes completely changed the dynamics of the franchise and took it to new casual gaming heights by offering a more approachable, cartoonish twist on World War II combat. Additionally, it’s the sole third-person-only game of the series. Playful graphics combined with a free-to-play model solidified this experience for a larger audience, but the core multiplayer experience remains the same. The game was a fictionalized version of WWII where players could be in the National Army or the Royal Army and participate in team-based combat. While the game is no longer supported by EA, there is a fan-made rendition available for all players.
16. Battlefield Play4Free
| Score of Likeness | Release Year | Platforms | Avg Game Time |
| 6/10 | 2011 | Windows | 20-40 hours |
Battlefield Play4Free lived up to its name and provided a free-to-play multiplayer experience to all PC players in a modern military environment. With elements from Battlefield 2 and Bad Company 2, it offered a large-scale all-out war scenario. While it offered no backstory, the elements of online combat with vehicles and infantry were enough to grab players’ attention. Like other free-to-play games, it had microtransactions for customizing your weapons and player, and some features were locked without spending money. Overall, it received a mixed feedback from fans. Some appreciated its free nature while others felt the depth and story were missing. While the game is no longer operational, you can still catch loads of Battlefield deals on Eneba!
A Journey Through Battlefield: From Classic Warfare to Futuristic Battles
The Battlefield truly lives up to its name, showcasing battle and eras of warfare while setting new standards for gameplay and technology. This story started in 2002 with Battlefield 1942, revolutionizing the experience of World War II in a game. The large maps, vehicles, and team-based combat set new standards for multiplayer shooters.
However, Battlefield didn’t stick to the stories of the past. The games advanced by covering various periods and even touched future times. Battlefield Vietnam took a player into the chaotic jungles of the 1960s, with weapons of the past and guerrilla tactics. In contrast, Battlefield 2 and Battlefield 3 focused on modern warfare, with advanced weapons and gadgets, environment destruction, and perfected multiplayer experience to attract gamers of all times across the globe.
Battlefield’s story didn’t end here. Battle 1 made a bold step back into the trenches of World War 1, with stunning visuals and storytelling depicting the reality of early 20th-century combat. Then came Battlefield 2042, which leaped into the near future, with cutting-edge tech and gigantic battles run by super-powered game engines.
Each game gives its rendition of the past and future, making Battlefield a series that truly has something for everyone, no matter what your favorite era in combat may be.
Multiplayer Mayhem: The Heart of Battlefield Games
Battlefield’s multiplier, the heart of the series makes the games special to us and fans. From the beginning, Battlefield has turned large-scale multiplayer battles into something to be experienced on an immense scale. Conquest and Breakthrough allow us to plunge into intense battles among 128 players simultaneously, creating chaos yet thrilling surroundings that leave us wanting more.
One of the most striking features of Battlefield multiplayer lies in environmental destruction. Being able to blow up a building or create new pathways adds a strategic level to how we approach every match. Using a variety of vehicles like tanks or helicopters, allows players to traverse the terrain faster and take the fight to their enemies.
Teamwork and working well in squads is the key to winning in multiplayer mode. Choosing the perfect classes that work well with your friends or teammates when things get hot and tough is important. Environmental destruction, the variety of vehicles, and squad dynamics mark an unforgettable multiplayer experience. Combining these elements makes a chaotic and strategy-based gives players an adrenaline rush that gets them back again and again. In essence, the heart of Battlefield lies in these enormous battles, and honestly, there is nothing quite like it.
Single-Player Campaigns: Stories from the Battlefield
While the multiplayer fights in the Battlefield series are famous, the single-player campaigns offer captivating stories that enhance the whole experience. Every game immerses us in various fictional and historical battle environments, enabling us to empathize with the characters and their hardships.
One campaign well received is Battlefield 1, in which we see the stories and experiences of different soldiers during World War I. Each soldier’s story is unique. We get to see the war from various perspectives and challenges, making this an episodic campaign that keeps gameplay fresh and teaches us the emotional toll on these soldiers.
Another notable campaign is in Battlefield Bad Company 2, wonderfully merging humor with action. The storyline follows the misadventures of some misfit soldiers who embark on a mission with a few unbelievable twists. The character development you observe builds an affection for their mission and adds another layer of depth to the gameplay.
These campaigns add richness to the Battlefield series with their narratives on themes such as sacrifice, loyalty, and most basically, the human cost of war. They allow us to take a step back from multiplayer mayhem and connect with a story on a more personal level, making our time in the Battlefield universe much richer.
Technological Advancements in the Battlefield Series
A lot of what made up the Battlefield lies in the pioneering work of DICE, developers of the Frostbite engine. Frostbite represented a change in warfare when first introduced into Battlefield: Bad Company, delivering realistic destruction for the first time. It enabled wall bashing, building takedown, and dynamic reshaping of the battlefield. Every explosion felt real, not just visually but as also in gameplay.
Frostbite has grown over the years and continues to push the boundaries of graphics, physics, and especially sound design. This could be seen in the visuals for Battlefield 3 and further in Battlefield 1. The level of detail in the game was amazing, with full-speed fire effects, realistic mud, and functional weather systems. Mastering the sound design showcased in the deafening roar of a tank to a faraway artillery whistle made gameplay more immersive. Every part of the game, from how the dust settles after an explosion to dynamic lighting in warzones is perfectly crafted.
These do not only make Battlefield breathtakingly beautiful but also enhance gameplay. The realistic destruction leaves no hiding spot safe, and dynamic weather gives whole new layers to tactics. This Frostbite engine lets us feel war. This is not just technology, it’s the soul of Battlefield, turning each battle into a cinematic experience.
Community and Esports: Battlefield’s Competitive Scene
Over the years, the competitive aspect of Battlefield has developed a vibrant community. Team-based gameplay and large-scale battles have added a special flavor to esports for the series. Battlefield does not have as much dominance in the esports arena as some other shooters, but its tournaments and leagues brought players together in the name of strategy, teamwork, and skill. Events such as the ESL tournament of Battlefield 4 highlight those moments in the game that expose the thrills of competition, such as squads scuffling over controlling dynamic maps.
Community-run leagues and events form the biggest portion of what constitutes Battlefield’s competitive landscape. Grassroots competitions force players to come together and form squads, strategize, and tackle objectives that showcase the great importance communication and coordination hold. Even beyond tournaments, there are some serious bonding experiences for players as they all do fan-made events and custom modes to keep the spirit of competition going.
It isn’t the dominator of the esports world, but there is beauty in it that brings people together, united by large-scale tactical battles. In any case, whether through communities hosting events or official leagues running for it, Battlefield continues to inspire us to work in teams, fight smarter, and have a good time.
Future of Battlefield: What’s on the Horizon?
Things are looking bright on the Battlefield horizon. Recently, some details from one of the next games were shared by EA and Respawn Entertainment’s ‘Vince Zampella’. In a modern warfare setting kind of fashion, reminiscent of the glorious days of Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4, we can expect some amazing experiences this time around. This would be a step back towards modern times is what many fans hope to hear, especially after the mixed reception of Battlefield 2042.
Zampella said the game will feature more compact, tight maps, and matches will be 64 players rather than the 128-player matches promised with Battlefield 2042. The idea would be to improve gameplay and make fights much more intense. More importantly, the specialist system that was probably the most hated and debated topic of the last game has been made over to a traditional class system that most gamers said was the very core of Battlefield.
We do not have a release date yet but we know that playtesting has already begun, and this new game may see the light of day sometime in 2025. Moreover, a community program associated with the game is also expected to begin sometime in 2025.
Tips for New Players: Getting Started in Battlefield
Stepping into the world of Battlefield will feel overwhelming, but trust us, the experience is worth it. Doesn’t matter which game you play, it’s always best to familiarize yourself with the classes. Pick Assault if you’re aggressive, Medic to keep your team alive, Engineer for vehicle repairs, and Support provides coverfire and ammo. Each class has a specific role, so try everything and choose what fits your playstyle.
Battlefield is about teamwork. With huge maps and terrains to cover with strict objectives, you should stick with your squad, follow orders from your leader, and focus on the mission. Battlefield series is heavy on vehicles and mastering each takes time, so don’t be impatient and learn the mechanics of each in solo modes.
With these vast maps, learn to use cover and flank enemies when you can. Adapt to the situation and always pay attention to your environment. You never know when your cover or even the building you’re in may come crashing down. The beauty of Battlefield also lies in the community. Every player starts somewhere, so don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and ask anything on forums or chat.
Advanced Strategies: Mastering Battlefield Gameplay
Mastering the Battlefield is achieved through precision, adaptability, and strategy. Advanced players know that the battlefield is more than a war zone, it is a chessboard. Positioning is important, therefore, dominating the high ground comes first. Customizing your weapons is your best friend. Customize your attachments according to your playstyle: use a long-range scope for sniping, an extended magazine for suppressive fire, and grips for stability in intense firefights, etc. Experiment with different combinations to find what sticks for each map and mode.
Teamwork is the heart of the game. Talk on voice cha, share intel, or coordinate attacks. A good squad leader assigns tasks following the flow of a normal match. In support, keep an eye on teammates, revival or resupplying him might switch the tides.
Challenge yourself by working on accuracy in precision-shooting drills or multi-tasking with pressure. The more you refine your skills, the more fun Battlefield becomes, and becomes a game of skill and strategy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Battlefield game is best for newcomers to the series?
Battlefield 3 is the perfect stepping stone if you want a compact experience of the entire franchise. Go for Battlefield 1 for the ideal multiplayer feel.
Which Battlefield game offers the best single-player campaign?
Battlefield 2: Bad Company 2 perfectly blends humor, action, drama and chaos.
Do I need to play Battlefield games in order?
No, you don’t have to play them in order. While some games have the same characters, all are mostly stand-alone.
Which Battlefield game has the largest multiplayer maps?
Battlefield 2042 has some of the biggest maps, along with Battlefield 5 and 3.
Is there cross-play functionality in Battlefield games?
Yes, recent releases like Battle 2042 support cross-play between console players and PC.
