Re: What squad focused features would you like to see?
I would like to see all of the battlefield 4 squad mechanics integrated into 2042. This includes
- Creating squads
- Leaving squads
- Joining squads
- Making squads private
Voice communication (while already announced to be integrated) has the potential to be innovated for the next generation. In addition to voice chat between squad members, developers could have features for squads to communicate between one another. My concept is as follows. Key features are
- Internal squad chat
- Squad leader chat
- Commander chat
For the internal squad chat, allow a standard channel for squad voice chat. Default is for the mic to be on, options to push to talk or mute yourself or others in the squad as needed. Have the squad leader highlight comms during the game chat to emphasize leadership. Allow the leader to mark objectives. Reward XP for ordering your squad, and following your squad leader. Allow objective markers by squad leaders to be seen by all members of the game, or at least by other squad leaders.
In addition to this, create a channel for squad leaders to talk to each other. Highlight which squad leader is talking on the channel, and allow other leaders to respond. Allows for coordination on a large scale throughout the map. Examples: "Enemy tank on Charlie, Requesting air support on Alpha," Make this most applicable through voice chat, but also have an option for basic quick text chats. By making these options only available to squad leaders, it allows for coordination between 64 or even 100+ player lobbies in a digestable format.
Finally, introduce a single commander. This member would have a similar role to its counterpart in Battlefield Hardline. They would allow proper distribution of squads and a general strategy to be implemented. There are key differences though. The commander does more than just mark and hopes that squad leaders follow. Give incentives to listen to the commander. Allow the commander to give vehicles, spawn points, or access to advantageous positions on the map previously withheld. This commander doesn't have to stay out of the battlefield like in Hardline, but could be a part of a squad as a general member and go to a separate menu to act as a commander when needed. This role needs to be engaging and have rewards to incentivize members to play it. Also, there should be a fair method for a player to become this role. Maybe by their score in a previous game or through a self-nominated lottery system.
I think this system would keep players engaged and feel as if they're contributions directly contribute to the course of the game. This would introduce stakes
