A vast amount of information about "Battlefield 2042" has been released in a new Q&A briefing on the EA website. Several interesting details were offered, but arguably the biggest is the confirmation that "Battlefield 2042" will allow PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC players to play together in cross-play.

Given that "Battlefield 2042" is the first game in the series to allow up to 128 players in a lobby, it makes sense to introduce cross-play so that the lobby is always full. The game will offer AI bots to fill the empty spots, but they may end up being an unnecessary addition since players on all three platforms can play together.

PS4/Xbox One players can play together, but not with next-gen console owners or PC players due to the 64-player limit. However, progress can be carried over across all platforms. So if you start playing on PS4 and then move to PS5 or Xbox Series X, your ranks and unlocks will carry over.

The briefing also confirmed that Battlefield 2042 is a fully online experience. It was previously revealed that it will be possible to play solo against AI bots, but a sustained Internet connection will be required to do this as well. This news is somewhat disappointing, but certainly not unexpected.

The most controversial of the changes being introduced in "Battlefield 2042" is the new specialist system, which is further outlined in the Q&A.

Gone are the four previous "Battlefield" classes, and in their place are ten specialists reminiscent of the heroes in "Overwatch" and operators in "Rainbow Six Siege." Each has unique tools and characteristics, but otherwise can use unlocked weapons and gadgets.

Compared to the rigid class system of previous "Battlefield" games, it seems certain that specialists will offer players more flexibility. However, the series has always emphasized squad play, and each class has a specific role. By losing that element, Battlefield 2042 could dilute the series' tradition of emphasizing teamwork and camaraderie.

Other information released included seven maps at launch, a vehicle recall system in case you need wheels (or wings) at a moment's notice, and the ability to attach explosives to robot dogs before sending them into enemy squads. Yes, that last one has actually been confirmed.

It has been previously confirmed that Battlefield 2042 will have an open beta before launch, but if you want to play sooner, there will also be a closed technical playtest later this summer. This will be by invitation only, and only a handful of participants will be selected. To participate, you must register on EA's playtest site.

"Battlefield 2042" is scheduled to be released on October 22, and from what we've seen so far, it definitely looks like a game worth looking for a PS5 restock or Xbox Series X restock.