10 Dumbest Reasons Video Games ALMOST Got Cancelled
4. EA Thought WWI Was Boring - Battlefield 1
Although Battlefield started in World War II, the sequels focused more on modern warfare. And with other shooters implementing more sci-fi elements, it appeared DICE's franchise would follow suit.
But creative director, Lars Gustavsson, decided to go in a different direction, having the 2016 instalment, Battlefield 1, take placing during the First World War. Because few war titles centred around this period, Gustavsson thought his project would stand out. Game designer, Daniel Berlin, was on board with this pitch, since the weapons and gadgets gave players more varied play-styles.
Unfortunately, EA exec, Patrick Soderlund rejected Gustavsson's plan immediately, believing, "trench warfare, it can't be fun to play". Even though Gustavsson was told to give the next Battlefield instalment a futuristic slant, he created a Battlefield 1 demo for Soderlund, with the WWI angle intact. EA were deeply impressed, allowing Gustavsson to maintain his vision.
Thankfully, Battlefield 1 received universal acclaim and sold a staggering 15 million units. Meanwhile, Call of Duty: Infinity Warfare, which launched at the same time, was ridiculed relentlessly for embracing the futuristic setting. If Gustavsson didn't stick to his plan, Battlefield 1 probably would've received a similar reaction.