Don’t let the current Steam reviews fool you; while Battlefield Redsec might appear to be a complete flop at first glance, the reality behind its ‘mostly negative’ score is more nuanced. Fresh off the success of BF6, EA’s Battlefield Studios has now launched this free-to-play companion game. Redsec features both a battle royale and an intense elimination gauntlet mode, boasting impressive destructive environments that let you carve out new routes across the maps. So, what’s causing such a stir among players?
Ironically, one of Battlefield Redsec’s biggest challenges seems to be its strengths. While the core Battlefield 6 game has been widely praised, some players noted a desire for the expansive, large-scale battles seen in earlier titles. Battlefield Redsec, however, delivers precisely this: a vast map teeming with strategic points, flanking opportunities, and spectacular destruction. This design choice appears to be a major point of contention for reviewers, who have given the game a mere 35% positive rating from over 2,300 responses.
Many users echo this sentiment. One reviewer lamented, “BF6 base multiplayer gets small maps with limited destruction. BF BR gets a massive map with whole buildings coming down and water vehicles. I wish they spent more time making Conquest a true BF experience.” Another added, “Oh wow, a nice big map with lots of POIs and flanks. If only we could get something like this for the main game.” It seems players are craving the scale Redsec offers within the main Battlefield title.
The game’s microtransactions are also a hot topic. While Redsec is a free-to-play standalone title on Steam, its connection to BF6 is undeniable in the minds of players. This link is further emphasized by the inclusion of battle royale challenges within the BF6 season pass progression. Though these seem to be optional additions rather than mandatory requirements, they could certainly irk completionists.
Perhaps the most valid criticism currently leveled against Redsec is the complete absence of a solo queue. Players have no option to disable autofill and venture into matches alone against teams. A significant portion of the gaming community enjoys the heightened tension and challenge of playing without backup, and it would be surprising if Battlefield Studios doesn’t address this by adding a solo option in a future update.
Speaking personally, I’ve never been overly captivated by even the most acclaimed battle royale titles. However, Battlefield Redsec’s Gauntlet mode has certainly piqued my interest. This squad-based elimination format, where players race to complete missions, feels much more my style. It even brings to mind games like The Finals, which delivered some of the most enjoyable competitive shooter experiences I’ve had outside of Splitgate.
What’s more, downloading Redsec grants access to Portal’s expansive sandbox toolset. This is an excellent bonus, particularly for those curious about BF6 but hesitant to commit financially. If you prefer to form your own opinion rather than relying on public sentiment, you can try it for free on Steam.
Just getting started and need some tips? Explore guides on custom loadouts and how to acquire a vehicle keycard in Battlefield Redsec.
What do you think of this free-to-play contender? Share your thoughts with the PCGamesN community. Is it drawing you away from the main BF6 experience, or do you see it as a passing distraction?