Star Wars Battlefront II is surging in popularity once again, reigniting fan demand for the long-lost Battlefront 3. Despite the community’s passion, the sequel remains just out of reach, and here’s why.

The Resurgence of Battlefront 2

Over the past week, Star Wars Battlefront II has seen a surprising surge in player numbers. Whether it’s nostalgia, the growing popularity of Star Wars content across streaming platforms, or renewed community interest, fans are returning to DICE’s 2017 shooter in large numbers. Servers that were once quiet are now packed, and online matches are easier to find than ever.

This wave of returning players has reignited a familiar conversation in the gaming world: the demand for Battlefront 3.

A Brief History of Battlefront (2004–2007)

The Battlefront series began with two iconic titles from LucasArts and Pandemic Studios in 2004 and 2005. These games offered large-scale battles, space combat, and instant action modes that defined the early 2000s Star Wars gaming experience.

A third installment was in development around 2006–2007, but it was ultimately cancelled. Studio closures, internal conflicts, and shifting priorities within LucasArts contributed to the project’s downfall. Early footage and leaked builds have since surfaced, showing a game that was ambitious and ahead of its time.

Why Battlefront 3 Was Cancelled

The modern Battlefront 3 never saw the light of day. After the success of Battlefront II’s late updates and content drops, it seemed like a sequel was inevitable. However, reports surfaced in 2022 revealing that EA and DICE had pitched a Battlefront 3 to Lucasfilm, but the project was turned down.

The reason? Licensing costs. Developing a Star Wars title requires paying a significant fee to Disney, and EA reportedly decided it wasn’t worth the investment. Even with Battlefront II’s strong post-launch performance, EA shifted focus to original IPs and other franchises they fully own, like Battlefield.

The Last Skins Added to the Game

Part of what fueled Battlefront II’s popularity in its later years was the steady stream of new content. Fans were thrilled to see beloved characters like Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Count Dooku. However, the final updates left many disappointed. Instead of long-requested heroes like Ahsoka Tano or Cad Bane, players received less-desired additions such as BB-8 and BB-9E.

For some, it felt like the game’s content roadmap was cut short just as it was getting good.

A Fanbase That Never Forgot

Despite all the cancellations and setbacks, the Battlefront community never truly gave up. Fans continue to ask for a sequel in every official Star Wars or EA-related comment section. YouTube videos, Reddit posts, and TikTok trends keep the dream alive. The passion of the player base has turned the idea of Battlefront 3 into something of a legend.

Some fans even organize unofficial campaigns and mods to bring new content into Battlefront II and the classic Battlefront II (2005), keeping both games alive through community dedication.

Why Battlefront 3 Is Unlikely

While the demand is loud, the reality of licensing costs makes a new Battlefront game unlikely. EA no longer has exclusive rights to develop Star Wars games, and the franchise is now open to multiple studios under the Lucasfilm Games label. However, no announcements have pointed toward a new large-scale multiplayer shooter like Battlefront.

Moreover, EA seems focused on less risky investments. Developing a Star Wars title means splitting profits with Disney, dealing with brand oversight, and satisfying a massive, passionate fanbase. It’s a high-risk, high-reward scenario that EA may prefer to avoid.

What Could the Future Hold?

Hope remains, especially with studios like Ubisoft and Respawn Entertainment now working on their own Star Wars projects. While these titles are more likely to be narrative-driven, there’s always a chance that another studio may pick up the torch and revive the Battlefront concept.

For now, fans will continue to return to the 2017 version, finding joy in its deep combat, beautiful visuals, and the unmistakable soundscape of the Star Wars galaxy. The community may not have Battlefront 3, but the spirit of the series lives on in the games that already exist.