Battlefield 6 Revives Classic Operation Metro Map in Portal Mode
Despite a gradual decline in its player base as it approaches its second season, Battlefield 6 continues to maintain a robust presence in the gaming community. With over 55,000 players logging in daily, EA's military shooter demonstrates enduring appeal. While new official maps are still weeks away, players can now experience a nostalgic blast from the past through a fan-made recreation of the iconic Operation Metro map.
Operation Metro Returns in Battlefield 6 Portal
Originally a fan favourite in Battlefield 3 and Battlefield 4, Operation Metro was renowned for its intense infantry combat and XP-grinding opportunities. A dedicated player has meticulously recreated this map within Battlefield 6's Portal mode, and EA has given it prominent placement on the game's homepage. This version includes both the underground sections and the cafe square area, crafted as accurately as possible using Portal's limited toolset.
Although the recreation has some visual shortcomings—such as inconsistent lighting and basic textures that resemble grey boxes—it remains unmistakably Metro. It supports the same chaotic 64-player conquest matches that made the original so popular. Players can access this experience by navigating to the Portal section in the main menu, where it is currently featured.
Challenges and Limitations of the Portal Experience
Despite its availability, the Operation Metro map has struggled to attract a consistent player base. One significant issue is poor discoverability within Battlefield 6's Portal server browser, which has been criticised since launch despite being marketed as a key feature. This has made it difficult for servers to fill up, limiting the multiplayer experience.
Another major drawback is that Battlefield Studios has disabled progression experience in Portal mode. This decision was made shortly after the game's release to curb XP farm servers, and it has not been reversed. As a result, players cannot earn XP towards weapons or challenges, which reduces incentive for many, especially those focused on Battle Pass objectives where every minute counts.
Additionally, Portal servers operate at a slower tickrate compared to the main game, leading to issues like rubber banding and sluggish gameplay. These technical limitations can detract from the overall experience, making it less appealing for competitive players.
Future Prospects for Classic Maps in Battlefield 6
The attention given to Operation Metro in Portal mode could inspire Battlefield Studios to consider remastering more classic maps to rejuvenate player engagement. Recently, the studio confirmed that a remake of Goldmud Railway from Battlefield 4 is in development for BF6. Rumours also suggest that maps like Propaganda and Downtown from Hardline might be on the horizon.
For many long-time fans, the return of beloved maps like Wake Island remains a hopeful dream. The inclusion of Operation Metro, despite its flaws, highlights the community's passion and the potential for Portal mode to serve as a bridge to Battlefield's rich history. As the game evolves, such recreations could play a crucial role in sustaining its player base and celebrating its legacy.
