Multiplayer servers for Battlefield Hardline will be permanently shut down on Xbox and PlayStation consoles next Monday, June 22nd. Electronic Arts announced the impending closure of the 2015 spin-off's online services in March, as part of a two-stage process that also saw the game and its downloadable content removed from digital storefronts on May 22nd.
Following the shutdown, players will only be able to access Battlefield Hardline's single-player campaign on consoles. While the game is no longer available for purchase, it remains accessible through the EA Play subscription service. Owners of the digital version will still be able to download and play the campaign offline.
The PC version of Battlefield Hardline is unaffected by the server closure. The game can still be purchased through EA's own launcher and Steam. Although SteamDB indicates fewer than 50 daily players on Steam, the news of the console shutdown could potentially lead to a temporary resurgence of interest in the PC version.
Battlefield Hardline, developed by Visceral Games, departed from the series' typical military setting, focusing instead on a law enforcement theme with conflicts between police and criminals. Despite a largely panned single-player campaign, its multiplayer component was generally better received by the community. However, long-term player retention was a challenge, with some late-game downloadable content expansions struggling with player counts even at launch.
The game is noted for introducing several mechanics that later appeared in other Battlefield titles, such as the ability for Support players to resupply ammo. Its unique game modes, like Hotwire, are often remembered as some of the most distinct departures from the mainline Battlefield formula. The game was released amidst a particular political climate, which, along with its reception, is detailed in a Eurogamer review.