EA Dismisses Rumors of Cut 'Battlefield 3' Campaign Levels

Battlefield 3's Untold Story: Two Missing Missions Revealed

Battlefield 3, a celebrated entry in the franchise known for its intense multiplayer, also boasts a single-player campaign that, while praised for its action, received mixed reviews for its narrative shortcomings. A recent revelation from former DICE developer David Goldfarb sheds light on this: two entire missions were cut from the game's original campaign.

Released in 2011, Battlefield 3 impressed with its visuals, large-scale multiplayer, and the innovative Frostbite 2 engine. However, the single-player experience, a globe-trotting military conflict, often drew criticism for its lack of narrative cohesion and emotional impact. The linear structure and reliance on scripted sequences were frequently cited as weaknesses.

Goldfarb's Twitter post unveiled the existence of two excised missions centered around Sergeant Hawkins, the jet pilot featured in the "Going Hunting" mission. These omitted missions would have depicted Hawkins' capture and subsequent escape, potentially adding significant depth and character development to her role. Her survival and eventual reunion with Dima could have provided a more compelling and engaging narrative arc.

This revelation has sparked renewed discussion surrounding Battlefield 3's single-player, often considered its weakest aspect compared to the highly acclaimed multiplayer. The missing missions, focusing on survival and character development, could have significantly improved the campaign's pacing and variety, addressing some of the most common criticisms.

The conversation extends beyond nostalgia for Battlefield 3, reaching towards the future of the franchise. The absence of a campaign in Battlefield 2042 fueled debate about the importance of narrative. This rediscovery of cut content underscores player desire for future Battlefield titles to prioritize engaging, story-driven single-player experiences alongside the series' signature multiplayer component.