Battlefield leaks hint at deep visual class personalization

Tom Belous (The Lanky Soldier)
Jul 17
5 min read

Inspired by Battlefront (2015) and Battlefield V, next Battlefield might be the most customisable

Customization has always been a major point of discussion in the Battlefield franchise. From iconic soldier silhouettes in Battlefield 1942 to fully editable appearances in Battlefield V, fans have seen the system evolve, sometimes controversially. But with the next Battlefield game in active development and playtests underway, leaks are pointing to a major overhaul of how you’ll look on the battlefield. The Battlefield One Podcast team took a deep dive into the leaked class customization options, and we’ve got a lot to say.

Recent datamined information by the respected Battlefield leaker Temporyal suggests the upcoming game will feature extensive soldier customization, similar to what players saw in Star Wars Battlefront (2015) and Battlefield V. According to Episode 35 of Battlefield One Podcast, players will be able to individually swap out helmets, jackets/tops, pants, and more.

This level of personalization may feel familiar to those who enjoyed Battlefront’s character models or those who tweaked their soldiers in Battlefield V. But this time, it seems the system is being designed to allow more expressive and modular control across all classes.

During Episode 35, Tom (TheLankySoldier), Ray, and Andre all weighed in on this new system:

Tom explained the core system: “Character customizations like Battlefront 1, basically Battlefield V improved. Which is fine. That means you can change the helmet, you can change the jacket, the top, whatever. You can change the pants probably. You can change something else, which is great. I mean, it’s perfect. That’s what we want.”

Ray immediately embraced the potential: “Me? Bush wookie. I want to customize that helmet so I can blend into the environment. That’s how I play.” He added that this kind of system, while aesthetic on the surface, also adds immersion and personal identity to the multiplayer experience.

Andre, however, expressed concerns about fragmentation and visual chaos. “I really don’t like that you can mix and match your stuff. I feel like Battlefield is the kind of game that should have full-on uniforms… you shouldn’t be running around with a green jacket, red pants, and a WW2 helmet like it’s Fortnite.”

To that, Tom countered with real-world comparisons: “You ever see combat footage from modern war zones? Bunny ears on helmets, mismatched kits, it’s reality now. And if you want immersion, that’s immersion too.”

1. What does customization include?

Players can swap helmets, jackets/tops, pants, and potentially more items individually per class. This builds on the visual freedom seen in BFV but with more control.

2. Can classes still be identified clearly?

That’s a debate. Andre prefers class-specific full uniforms. But others suggested in-game icons, patches, or color-coded class symbols above name tags as solutions.

3. Is there concern over battlefield readability?

Yes, but it depends on implementation. Ray said: “Just put a class icon on the arm, or above their head. Solves it.” Function over uniformity.

4. Does this affect gameplay or is it visual only?

Currently, it appears to be purely cosmetic, meaning your customization won’t change how your class performs.

5. Could this be monetized?

Absolutely. Expect battle passes, unlockable skins, and possibly premium cosmetics tied to challenges or events.

6. Will these options tie into factions or nations?

Leaks haven’t confirmed, but Episode 35 hinted at designs themed around different national forces, especially through concept art showing faction-based loadouts.

7. Are there visual restrictions to keep it realistic?

Nothing is confirmed, but the developers may apply visual boundaries to avoid Fortnite-level absurdity, though real-world mismatches are fair game.

8. What does the community think?

As discussed in the episode, fans are split. Some want “realism and silhouette clarity,” while others crave identity and freedom.

9. Is immersion lost or gained?

Both, depending on your stance. Tom argued that mismatched gear reflects modern warfare and boosts immersion. Andre pushed for stricter uniformity.

10. Does customization affect class balance?

No indication that it will. It seems to be aesthetic only. Weapons and gadgets remain the main factors in class performance.

11. How does this compare to other modern shooters?

As far as we can tell, trying to take inspiration from Modern Warfare 2019 and Warzone OG.

The new soldier customization system could redefine how we engage with Battlefield characters. It gives players more freedom, expression, and immersion, but also brings challenges for game clarity and team coordination. As the Battlefield One Podcast crew discussed, the battlefield might soon be filled with visually distinct avatars, and that could be either a blessing or a curse, depending on your taste.

We appreciated the nuanced conversation. Andre brought up the importance of consistent visual identity; Ray focused on functional clarity and immersion; Tom kept it grounded with real-world parallels and excitement for personalization. It was a debate worth having, and it mirrors the broader community’s ongoing discussions.

The next Battlefield is shaping up to be a highly personalized sandbox where not just your gun, but your soldier, can reflect who you are. Whether you’re the type to match your jacket with your pants or run into battle wearing a bunny-eared helmet, the choice is finally yours. Just remember to check your class before reviving that downed teammate.

This article is brought to you by the Battlefield One Podcast, where we break down announcements like this, analyze gameplay footage, and track the development of Battlefield week to week. Whether you're new to the franchise or a returning veteran, follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen, and get the full picture behind the frontlines.

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