Should You Buy the Battlefield 1 Premium Pass? A Veteran’s Perspective
The question isn’t just “Should I buy it?” but “Is it worth my time and money?” For most players who enjoy Battlefield 1, and especially those who still play regularly, the Battlefield 1 Premium Pass is an excellent investment. It unlocks a significant amount of additional content, including maps, modes, and items, dramatically extending the game’s lifespan and enjoyment. However, the value proposition depends heavily on how much you plan to play and what you’re looking for in the Battlefield 1 experience. Let’s dive into the details.
What Does the Premium Pass Offer?
The Battlefield 1 Premium Pass is essentially a season pass that grants access to all four of the game’s DLC (Downloadable Content) expansion packs:
- They Shall Not Pass: Focuses on the French Army, introducing new maps, weapons, and the devastating Behemoth vehicle, the Char 2C tank.
- In the Name of the Tsar: Brings the Russian Army to the forefront, featuring maps set on the Eastern Front, new weapons, and the formidable Ilya-Muromets bomber.
- Turning Tides: Expands the naval warfare aspect, adding new maps, the British Royal Marines, and L-Class Destroyers.
- Apocalypse: Highlights some of the most brutal and chaotic battles of World War I, featuring maps such as Passchendaele and Caporetto, new weapons, and unique gadgets.
Beyond the maps and armies, the Premium Pass also offers:
- Early Access: Usually a two-week head start to each expansion pack, allowing you to experience the new content before other players.
- Premium Battlepacks: Regular Battlepacks containing weapon skins, vehicle skins, and other cosmetic items.
- Exclusive Dog Tags: Unique dog tags to customize your in-game profile.
- Priority Server Queue: Easier access to multiplayer servers, reducing wait times.
Evaluating the Value: Is It Right for You?
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if the Premium Pass is a good fit:
- Do you still actively play Battlefield 1? If you’re regularly logging in for multiplayer matches, the new maps and modes will significantly freshen up the experience.
- Are you interested in World War I history? The DLC expansions offer a deeper dive into specific fronts and battles, providing a more immersive historical context.
- Do you enjoy unlocking new content and customizing your soldier? The Premium Battlepacks and exclusive dog tags provide plenty of opportunities to personalize your experience.
- Are you looking for a competitive edge? While not pay-to-win, the early access and priority server queue can give you a slight advantage.
- Are you on a tight budget? If you are on a budget, consider buying the Revolution Edition if you don’t own the game. This includes the base game and the Premium Pass for one price. Watch for sales, as the price of the Premium Pass can fluctuate significantly.
If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, the Premium Pass is likely a worthwhile investment. Even if you only play occasionally, the added content can significantly extend the game’s replayability. However, if you’ve largely moved on from Battlefield 1 or aren’t particularly interested in the historical setting, the Premium Pass may not be worth the cost.
The Enduring Appeal of Battlefield 1
Battlefield 1 stands out as one of the most atmospheric and immersive World War I shooters ever created. The dynamic weather system, the large-scale battles, and the authentic weapon sounds all contribute to a truly unforgettable experience. The Premium Pass enhances this experience by adding even more depth and variety to the gameplay.
The Role of Games in Learning and Historical Understanding
Games like Battlefield 1, when approached thoughtfully, can contribute to learning about historical events. While not a substitute for academic study, the game can spark interest and provide a visceral understanding of the challenges and realities of warfare. It’s important to remember that these games are interpretations and not direct representations of history. Further exploration and research are crucial for a complete understanding. Consider exploring resources from organizations like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ for insights into the educational potential of gaming. Learning about the role of gaming in education could be a very valuable investment.
Conclusion: A Rewarding Investment for Dedicated Players
The Battlefield 1 Premium Pass offers a significant amount of content that enhances the base game experience. For dedicated players who enjoy the game’s historical setting and large-scale battles, it’s a worthwhile investment. However, carefully consider your own play habits and interests before making a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly do I get with the Battlefield 1 Premium Pass?
You get access to all four DLC expansion packs (They Shall Not Pass, In the Name of the Tsar, Turning Tides, and Apocalypse), early access to new content, Premium Battlepacks, exclusive dog tags, and priority server queue access.
2. Does the Premium Pass include the base game?
No, the Premium Pass does not include the base game. You need to own Battlefield 1 separately to use the Premium Pass. However, the Revolution Edition comes with the base game and the Premium Pass.
3. Is the Battlefield 1 Premium Pass a one-time purchase?
Yes, it is a one-time purchase. Once you buy it, you own all the associated content permanently.
4. Can I still buy the Battlefield 1 Premium Pass?
Yes, the Premium Pass is generally still available for purchase on most digital storefronts where Battlefield 1 is sold, such as the PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, and Origin/Steam.
5. How much does the Battlefield 1 Premium Pass cost?
The price varies depending on the platform and any ongoing sales. Check the respective digital storefronts for the most up-to-date pricing.
6. Are the DLC expansions available for purchase individually?
Yes, the DLC expansions can usually be purchased individually. However, buying the Premium Pass is typically more cost-effective if you want all four expansions.
7. Does the Premium Pass give me an unfair advantage in multiplayer?
The Premium Pass doesn’t provide any direct stat boosts or overpowered weapons. The early access and priority server queue can offer a slight advantage, but skill and teamwork are still the most important factors for success.
8. Will the Battlefield 1 Premium Pass ever be free?
It’s possible that the Premium Pass or the game itself could be offered for free as part of promotional events or subscription services like EA Play or Amazon Prime Gaming, but there’s no guarantee.
9. Does the Premium Pass affect the single-player campaign?
No, the Premium Pass primarily adds content to the multiplayer experience. It doesn’t alter or expand the single-player campaign.
10. Is Battlefield 1 still active in multiplayer?
While not as popular as newer Battlefield titles, Battlefield 1 still has a dedicated player base, especially on consoles. Finding matches is generally not a problem, particularly in popular game modes.
11. Does the Premium Pass transfer across platforms?
No, the Premium Pass is platform-specific. If you buy it on PlayStation, you can only use it on PlayStation. The same applies to Xbox and PC.
12. Is the Revolution Edition the same as the Premium Pass?
The Revolution Edition includes the base game and the Premium Pass, along with some additional cosmetic items. It’s a good option if you don’t already own Battlefield 1.
13. What if I only want one or two of the DLC expansions?
You can purchase the DLC expansions individually, but buying the Premium Pass is generally more economical if you want more than one.
14. Does the Premium Pass unlock all weapons and vehicles?
The Premium Pass unlocks access to the weapons and vehicles introduced in the DLC expansions. You still need to unlock them through gameplay, but you have the opportunity to acquire them.
15. Is it worth buying the Premium Pass in [current year]?
Despite its age, Battlefield 1 remains a visually stunning and engaging shooter. If you enjoy the game’s setting and gameplay, the Premium Pass can significantly extend its lifespan and provide many hours of additional enjoyment. The price of the pass may also be reduced, making it even more appealing.