Publisher Electronic Arts and developer DICE have revealed that the release of "Battlefield 1" this year will be extended via expansions, with the first DLC rolling out early next year.
In an announcement on the Origin webpage, EA and DICE revealed that after the "Battlefield 1" title rolls out in October, post-launch content will release for the game starting November, with the first major DLC, dubbed as "They Shall Not Pass," releasing in March next year. In addition, the announcement also confirmed that a Premium Pass will also be available for players, and pass holders will get early access to post-launch content. For the first DLC, Premium Pass holders can get a two-week head start and play the expansion content earlier than its full version release. After "They Shall Not Pass" releases in March 2017, at least three more DLCs are in line for the season.
The Premium Pass also includes monthly "Battle Packs," bonus content that includes 16 new multiplayer maps, 20 new weapons, 14 unique dog tags and 14 Battlepacks containing stand-out weapon skins. Via Origin, the Premium Pass is now available for pre-orders for $56.90
Meanwhile, although fans of the franchise can get the Premium Pass as a stand-alone purchase, Gamespot reports that EA will also come out with a "Battlefield 1: Ultimate Edition" copy for $130. This special edition is different from the already-announced "Collector's Edition," since the former will include the "Deluxe Edition" of the game and the Premium Pass bundled into one package.
Since "Battlefield 1" is set to be released in October, EA and DICE also revealed that the open beta for "Battlefield 1" will commence on Aug. 31. However, the open beta is only available for "Battlefield Insider" members who have registered for the test. After the beta, "Battlefield 1" will have a global launch on Oct. 21.
