Battlefield 3 spectator mode and e-sports features teased by latest Battlelog update

Battlefield 3 Happy Dance

The internet detectives over at MP1st have spotted changes to Battlefield 3's Battlelog service that suggest that e-sports matches and spectator modes are on their way. Proper match viewing features could be a big deal for Battlefield 3, as they'd make the game's best moments accessible to commentators, and therefore the wider e-sports audience. There are so many different mechanics in play in a given match that you'd think it'd make for ideal viewing.

As for the evidence itself, first up are the new 'create a match' and 'view matches' options under the 'multiplayer' drop-down, both of which currently lead to a placeholder page. Then there are these commands, dug out of Battlelog's source code by an enterprising user :

platoonbattleteamsetup-spectators

invitedTeamLeaders

platoonbattle

team1Roster

team2Roster

SPECTATOR_ADDED

SPECTATOR_KICKED

ID_WEB_PLATOONBATTLE_COMINGSOON_HEADER_”

maxSpectators

Platoon DEMOTED

matches/betasignup/

The implication is that spectators will soon be allowed in to Battlefield 3 matches, that e-sports games are likely to be called Platoon Battles, and that there will be a beta test of some kind. Alternatively, that DICE are running an incredibly elaborate ARG, nothing is real, and that the world is but the dream of a butterfly. Probably the former, to be honest.

Would you watch livestreamed Battlefield 3 matches, readers? Is your platoon ready for competitive play?

Chris Thursten

Joining in 2011, Chris made his start with PC Gamer turning beautiful trees into magazines, first as a writer and later as deputy editor. Once PCG's reluctant MMO champion , his discovery of Dota 2 in 2012 led him to much darker, stranger places. In 2015, Chris became the editor of PC Gamer Pro, overseeing our online coverage of competitive gaming and esports. He left in 2017, and can be now found making games and recording the Crate & Crowbar podcast.

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