Battlefield 1 'Incursions' 5v5 mode begins closed alpha testing tomorrow

Last month, Electronic Arts announced a new 5v5 competitive mode for Battlefield 1 called Incursions, a smaller, more intensely-focused take on the game in which "only the sharpest strategic teams will rise to the top." In a blog post that went up today, DICE producer David Sirland revealed more about what's in store for players in the closed alpha test, which will get underway tomorrow.

The details are still being hammered out, but vehicles will continue to figure in the new mode, as will "using destruction as a tactic," Sirland said. "Though you’ll experience a more compact scale in the 5-versus-5 matches of the Battlefield 1 Incursions Closed Alpha, it takes place within a bigger theater of war with the aforementioned, iconic gameplay elements in place."

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EA also clearly wants to establish Battlefield 1 as a presence in the pro scene: Sirland said that Incursions matches should be exciting for players and spectators alike, with "top-notch support in place for those casting matches." Closed alpha players will do battle on a "scaled-down" version of the Giant's Shadow map with a Light Tank and Armored Car vehicles, and stats and results from the closed alpha will be shared with the community to enable players and developers to "extend their experiences," he added. "The goal is to fulfill the needs of players, casters, and organizers."

Unfortunately for anyone who hasn't yet signed up to take part, it's too late now: Registrations closed on August 26. On the upside, Sirland said that "more opportunities to enjoy this competitive experience will come your way" in the future.

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Andy has been gaming on PCs from the very beginning, starting as a youngster with text adventures and primitive action games on a cassette-based TRS80. From there he graduated to the glory days of Sierra Online adventures and Microprose sims, ran a local BBS, learned how to build PCs, and developed a longstanding love of RPGs, immersive sims, and shooters. He began writing videogame news in 2007 for The Escapist and somehow managed to avoid getting fired until 2014, when he joined the storied ranks of PC Gamer. He covers all aspects of the industry, from new game announcements and patch notes to legal disputes, Twitch beefs, esports, and Henry Cavill. Lots of Henry Cavill.