Battlefield 2042 update removes 128-player Breakthrough mode

Update 4.1 for Battlefield 2042 rolls out to all players soon, bringing with it bug fixes, quality-of-life improvements, and more. It also cuts down the game's 128-player Breakthrough mode to 64 players.

According to DICE, Update 4.1 will be available to download today (May 19th). The patch notes are lengthy and explain why the developer has decided to remove the 128-player Breakthrough mode from Battlefield 2042 (the 128-player Conquest mode is unchanged).

Battlefield 2042 Update 4.1 changes

"Our leading change is the removal of the 128 player version of Breakthrough," DICE says. "When reviewing the available experiences in All-Out Warfare, we felt that the 128 player modes are better suited for Conquest where gameplay spaces are larger, and where you have a more natural fit for sandbox gameplay."

DICE goes on to say that the impact of an individual player and squad is reduced in the game mode "due to the increased intensity and chaos of the combat." After reviewing Breakthrough with just 64 players, DICE says it found the reduced player numbers lent for a more tactical experience. "Reducing our player count here helps to remove some of the chaos from the experience, and in combination with the reductions that we have made to the number of available combat vehicles, it means players are better able to hold frontlines more effectively. Players will also find more space to work together and fulfil their individual roles.

"We believe that the move to 64 players will bring back the pacing that helps celebrate these moments of teamwork and PTFOing, and will be keeping a close eye on how our changes help to improve the experience ahead of the start of Season 1."

Elsewhere, Update 4.1 also rebalances stock weapons so they handle better and adjusts a few Specialists. Angel can no langer grant Armor Plates from his Supply Bag and Boris' Sentry Gun has been nerfed. You can check out the full list of patch notes here.

Are you still working your way through the Battlefield 2042 achievements? For those that have played it, what are your thoughts on the game now that it's had several updates? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by Sean Carey

Avid Xbox and achievement fan, Sean has committed to playing the best RPGs, racing games, and first-person shooters Xbox Game Pass and his precious free time will allow. Prior to joining TrueAchievements, Sean gained a degree in journalism from Solent University.