8 Video Game Franchises That Ruined Their Identity

7. Battlefield

Battlefield 2042
EA

As will be the case with so many franchises on this list, the Battlefield series would be fine if the developers were just allowed to make a Battlefield game. Unfortunately, EA isn't content with "just" selling 15 million copies of each new game to its dedicated playerbase, but clearly envisions Battlefield as a larger money maker, something that appeals to both fans of the franchise but also fans of other shooters.

As a result, the last few instalments have made concessions to more casual audiences. Removing or diluting classic mechanics and features - especially those centred around teamplay - we've seen the likes of Battlefield 2042 introduce hero shooter-style 'Operators' in place of the regular class system, half-baked attempts at battle royale and extraction game modes, flatter, less detailed maps, and far less environmental destruction.

Fans don't come to this series for an Overwatch clone, or a Call of Duty clone, but to, well, play Battlefield. EA doesn't seem to understand that though - in order for it to bring in billions, the company wants Battlefield to appeal to every shooter fan not understanding that, as the cliche goes, that'll only result in it appealing to nobody.

Contributor

Josh has over 11 years of experience as a published writer, having worked nine of those years as a full-time content producer at WhatCulture. In that period he has created hundreds of articles, videos and podcast episodes for multiple WhatCulture channels, specialising in gaming, horror and film & TV. He now primarily works as a senior content producer and presenter on WhatCulture Gaming where he co-hosts the WhatCulture Gaming Podcast, a top 3 UK most listened to gaming podcast that he co-created in 2018. Over the years he has reviewed several high-profile gaming releases, covered industry events with on-site reporting, opined on breaking news, and even kicked off his interviewing career by chatting to childhood hero, Tommy Wiseau.