From August 18th to 25th, EA and Battlefield Studios are opening free access to Battlefield 6 multiplayer—but with one strange condition: downloading the standalone battle royale game, REDSEC. All progress and unlocks will carry over if you purchase the full version.
Here’s how it works. REDSEC is a free client that launched last year and was supposed to be Warzone’s main competitor. It didn’t work out that way. The mode received only 41% positive reviews on Steam, and the esports league collapsed without explanation. Now, EA has decided to use the Battlefield 6 trial week as a way to breathe new life into REDSEC, timed to coincide with the crossover with Top Gun. Players who want to try out the new game will have to install this client—there’s no other way.
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What is REDSEC and why you can’t play Battlefield 6 without it
REDSEC is a standalone, free-to-play game available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. It lives in its own launcher, and it’s the only way to access the BF6 trial. The developers explicitly state: “Download Battlefield REDSEC on your platform to access the free trial.” No other options.
Why did they do this? Officially, to introduce the audience to REDSEC, in conjunction with the high-profile Top Gun event. Unofficially, it’s an attempt to save a mode that’s clearly superior to Warzone in terms of technology but less popular. Incidentally, REDSEC itself, dubbed the “poor cousin” of battle royale in the community, is now expecting an influx of players. And that’s a good thing, because the Battlefield 6 trial has some cool features.
What’s included in the Battlefield 6 trial
The trial period lasts exactly one week—from August 18th to August 25th, 2026. Four maps are available, including the iconic Wake Island and two new maps added in the new season: Tsuru Reef, Cairo Bazaar, and Hagental Base. Modes: Conquest, Breakthrough, Escalation, Casual Breakthrough, and the special Top Gun: Carrier Strike.
Here’s a quick list of modes and maps:
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Modes: Conquest, Breakthrough, Escalation, Casual Breakthrough, Carrier Strike
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Maps: Wake Island, Tsuru Reef, Cairo Bazaar, Hagental Base
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Platforms: PC (Steam/EA App), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
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Required: REDSEC with the June 30th update installed
Play is available on all platforms, with unlimited cross-play. Crossover with Top Gun – What’s New
Carrier Strike is a 64-game mode where two teams destroy enemy aircraft carriers. The mechanics are clearly inspired by the Titan from BF2142 and Carrier Assault from the fourth game. Two new fighters have been added – the F-74A Seacat and the F/A-81F Super Spectre – as well as the Gauntlet: Fighter Sweep mode for pure dogfights. The return of Wake Island is a tribute to longtime fans, and the map has been redesigned for the new destruction. The buildings are now denser, adding tactical depth.
Can I uninstall REDSEC after installation?
This is the main question hanging in the air. EA’s original announcement clearly stated: “Download REDSEC to gain access.” But there’s no word on what happens if I uninstall the client after the trial period starts.
Logic dictates that REDSEC acts as a proxy launcher—authorization and rights verification are handled through it. If you uninstall it, you’ll almost certainly lose access to Battlefield 6, even if you’ve already downloaded the trial. I recommend playing it safe: keep REDSEC until August 25th. Especially since you can continue playing REDSEC for free after the trial ends—that’s not such a bad bonus.
Will my progress carry over after August 25th?
Yes, and that’s great news. All unlocked items, weapons, skins, and the Battle Pass (if you purchased one) will remain on your EA account when you purchase the full version of Battlefield 6. After the trial week, you’ll have a choice: buy the game and keep everything you’ve earned (your progress will remain intact) or stay in REDSEC, which will continue to operate as a free-to-play battle royale.
Essentially, EA is giving you a week to test drive the game and then leaving you free to play REDSEC. It’s not the most obvious move, but it seems the publisher is focusing on long-term player retention.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to purchase Battlefield 6 for the trial?
No, just download REDSEC—no purchase required.
What platforms is the trial available on?
PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S.
What happens to your progress after the trial?
Will it carry over when you purchase the full game.
Is REDSEC a standalone game?
Yes, it’s a free client, separate from Battlefield 6.
In summary: the Battlefield 6 trial week isn’t just a gift to fans, but a clever marketing ploy. The developers clearly want to attract players to REDSEC. It’s up to you to decide whether downloading the additional client for seven days is worth it. But if you’ve been wanting to try the new Battlefield, the week from August 18th to 25th is the perfect time. Good luck on the battlefield!
