Battlefield 2042 is enjoying a major revival in its player base, particularly on Steam, following the launch of Update 9.2 and the conclusion of the second Battlefield 6 open beta weekend. The surge comes after a surprise content drop that has attracted both returning fans and new players alike.
Daily Users Skyrocket
In recent months, Battlefield 2042 struggled to break 10,000 concurrent players on Steam. However, as of August 18, Update 9.2 boosted its peak concurrent users to over 35,000, the highest number in nearly a year (SteamDB). This sudden spike is largely attributed to the new content added in the patch and the momentum carried over from the Battlefield 6 beta.
Update 9.2 Brings Free Battle Pass and More
Update 9.2 delivers new weapons, vehicles, and—most importantly—a free 60-tier battle pass available to all players. This pass not only rewards exclusive cosmetics for Battlefield 2042 but also includes items redeemable in Battlefield 6 once it launches on October 10.
Many of the cosmetics in the update pay homage to past Battlefield titles, which has given veteran fans even more incentive to jump back into the game. Players have until October 7 to grind through the pass before the rewards expire permanently.
Battlefield 6 Connection
The timing of this update is no coincidence. With the second and final Battlefield 6 open beta now over, DICE is clearly incentivizing players to keep their momentum by revisiting Battlefield 2042. Exclusive rewards tied to Battlefield 6 can only be earned through this pass, making it a limited-time opportunity that fans won’t want to miss.
Although DICE hasn’t confirmed the exact redemption process for Battlefield 6 rewards, it will likely require a linked EA account or system account connection.
Community Reception
Despite its rocky launch in 2021, Battlefield 2042 has slowly transformed thanks to consistent updates, bug fixes, and even collaborations with franchises like Mass Effect. For many who left the game years ago, the current version feels significantly more polished and engaging.
With Update 9.2 and Battlefield 6 on the horizon, EA and DICE may finally be turning the tide for the Battlefield franchise.