Battlefield 2042 Update 8.5.0 Now Live: What’s New and Improved

Overview of Battlefield 2042 Update 8.5.0

EA has launched update 8.5.0 for Battlefield 2042, featuring loading screen enhancements and various bug fixes aimed at improving player experience.
This update introduces a revamped visual design for loading screens across all game modes and the Battlefield Portal, along with clearer descriptions.
Additional updates are anticipated that will further refine loading screens and other game functionalities.

Electronic Arts (EA) has rolled out the 8.5.0 update for Battlefield 2042, introducing various quality-of-life enhancements to significantly improve the gaming experience. A major aspect of this update is the comprehensive visual redesign of loading screens across all modes, with plans for ongoing enhancements in forthcoming updates.

Since its rocky launch in 2021, Battlefield 2042 has evolved considerably, thanks to continuous updates focusing on technical stability and gameplay mechanics. A pivotal update in January 2025 introduced new vehicles, including the M3A3 Bradley and BMP-2, alongside newly available modes such as Frontlines Unlocked and Conquest Unlocked. While resources are being channeled towards the next installment, Battlefield 6, EA remains committed to supporting Battlefield 2042 with updates like the recently rolled out 8.5.0 version.

The update 8.5.0 is now accessible on all gaming platforms, showcasing significant improvements to the loading screens and addressing multiple bugs. Notably, this version includes an enhanced loading screen presentation, featuring richer descriptions and updated icons that clarify the rules of each mode. This enhancement extends to Custom Experiences within the Battlefield Portal, providing creators with expanded opportunities for detailed descriptions. EA’s patch notes indicate that further improvements to the loading screens will be introduced in subsequent updates, with more details to be shared on Battlefield’s social media platforms and Discord channel.

The 8.5.0 update also resolves issues such as overlapping input prompts on the deploy screen. Additionally, various vehicle improvements have been integrated, including an updated insertion sequence for the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and enhanced camera transitions for smoother in-vehicle switching. Notably, a bug that restricted players from purchasing the Accelerated Event Pass after completing all its levels has been addressed, enabling seamless access to rewards.

Players can expect more updates and enhancements as they await news about the next installment in the Battlefield franchise. The new title, developed by teams from Criterion, EA Motive, Ripple Effect, and primarily DICE, is projected for release within EA’s 2026 fiscal year, which spans from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.

Detailed Overview of Update 8.5.0 Patch Notes

Enhanced Loading Screen Features

A significant upgrade in Update 8.5 is the complete visual redesign of loading screens across all game modes. Players can now enjoy enhanced descriptions and intuitive iconography that clarifies the rules associated with each game mode before entering a match, making the transition more visually appealing. This upgrade also applies to Custom Experiences within the Battlefield Portal, allowing creators to offer more elaborate descriptions. Future updates are set to build upon these loading screen enhancements.

Change Log Summary

General Updates

Resolved overlapping input prompts on the deploy screen.

AI Updates

AI combatants will no longer fall out of bounds when engaged in battles at the shipwreck location.

Vehicle Enhancements

Introduced a new insertion sequence for the UH-60 Black Hawk.
Smoother camera transitions have been implemented while switching viewpoints in a vehicle.
Fixed an issue where projectiles would disappear when fired from above the maximum altitude of an air vehicle.

Progression Updates