Battlefield 6 momentum on Steam

An analyst sees momentum from the beta and preorders as Battlefield 6 races toward a Steam record.

Battlefield 6 aims for record Steam preorder numbers

Battlefield 6 is shaping up as a strong performer ahead of its October release. Alinea Analytics estimates 605,000 Steam pre-orders as of August 12, based on Steam scrapers and gamer panels, with concurrent Steam players topping 400,000 during the second beta. The analyst projects the preorder total could top one million if marketing momentum continues into September, citing the ongoing second beta and an autumn line-up that could keep excitement high.

EA’s pricing stance and the game’s structure also matter. Battlefield 6 remains a paid title with a free battle royale mode, and the base price sits at $70 with deluxe options pushing higher. Past Battlefield titles underperformed with critics and fans, so this year’s rebound is watched closely for staying power beyond launch week.

Momentum on Steam signals a potential turning point for Battlefield after missteps in recent years. The forecast hinges on sustained marketing and a favorable autumn window when other big shooters launch. Battlefield 6 leans into large maps, core class systems, and destructible environments to appeal to longtime fans while courting new players. Yet the headline numbers can be volatile and may not translate into long-term engagement without post-launch updates.

Pricing will be a critical test. A jump to $80 at base could dampen demand even as fans chase early access and special editions. Analysts caution against treating Battlefield as a Call of Duty killer; the two franchises serve different rhythms and audiences. Success will depend on continued content drops, balance between paid and free modes, and how EA manages expectations as the fall slate tightens.

Highlights

The next weeks will reveal whether this momentum sticks.