Battlefield 6 beta leaves vehicles feeling underpowered, DICE responds

GAMING NEWS Fyra Frost - Sep 10, 2025, 12:00

The Battlefield 6 open beta has wrapped up, and while players got their first real taste of the next entry in DICE's long-running series, one topic quickly dominated community discussion: vehicles felt noticeably underwhelming. Tanks, helicopters, and jeeps in particular seemed to lack staying power, often crumbling under the sheer number of anti-armor options available on the battlefield.

Across Reddit threads and social media, many players described frustrating encounters where vehicles were destroyed almost immediately after deployment. Stationary cannons, guided missiles, rocket spam, and even basic explosives gave infantry plenty of tools to neutralize armor before it could make much of an impact. What should have been a defining strength of Battlefield’s combined-arms combat often turned into a short-lived ride.

Developer acknowledges balance problem

Responding to the wave of criticism, Battlefield 6 producer David Sirland clarified that the issue isn't a bug but a broader balance challenge the studio is actively working to address.

"That is a balance issue wholesale, not specific to this special situation, however. And one we are actively working on," Sirland explained when pressed about the state of vehicles during the beta. He went on to say that the team deliberately leaned toward caution, adding: "Rather have too weak vehicles over too powerful to start. It’s a tricky one as players get better at using them over time as well."

Sirland’s comments highlight DICE’s philosophy—err on the side of weaker vehicles at launch rather than risk an overpowering meta that dominates gameplay.

That is a balance issue wholesale, not specific to this special situation however. And one we are actively working on. Rather have too weak vehicles over too powerful to start. Its a tricky one as players get better at using them over time as well.
— David Sirland (@tiggr_) September 9, 2025

Reactions from players were mixed. Some agreed with Sirland’s stance, pointing out that vehicles did feel strong when operated by coordinated squads but far too fragile when used alone. Others expressed frustration with the handling of helicopters and tanks, describing the controls as inconsistent or overly sensitive in some areas and unresponsive in others. One common theme across the feedback was that the vehicles lacked the satisfying punch and survivability that fans have come to expect from the series. For many veterans, Battlefield’s iconic vehicle combat just didn’t feel right in the beta.

DICE has already confirmed that a major tuning pass is underway to improve the state of vehicles before release. While players hoping for a direct return to the style of controls in Battlefield 4 may be disappointed, the developers have emphasized that changes will focus on fine-tuning stability, responsiveness, and overall balance rather than reverting to legacy systems. The goal, according to Sirland, is to strike a balance that makes vehicles rewarding to master without making them oppressive against infantry. This approach is designed to evolve alongside the player base, ensuring that as pilots and tank crews improve their skills, the vehicles still feel fair within the larger battlefield. The beta has made one thing clear: vehicles in Battlefield 6 still need work. By starting conservatively, DICE has avoided the risk of unleashing unstoppable armor that could overshadow infantry combat, but the cost has been a less impactful experience for those who favor the series' trademark vehicles.

With launch approaching, all eyes are on DICE to see whether the upcoming adjustments can restore the satisfying balance between infantry and armored vehicles that has long defined Battlefield's identity. If the planned tuning succeeds, the series could once again deliver the thrilling vehicle moments that keep players coming back. Hopefuly, DICE will get it right and the game will offer an optimal experience at launch. If you don't want to miss it, visit our comparator to get a Battlefield 6 at the cheapest price.