The AT Battlefield Bad Company 2 F.A.Q.

Page 8 - Seeking answers? Join the AnandTech community: where nearly half-a-million members share solutions and discuss the latest tech.
Toggle sidebar Toggle sidebar
Status
Not open for further replies.
minmaster

minmaster

Platinum Member
Oct 22, 2006
2,041
3
71
we'll see about FOV, it's going to be discussed in an upcoming blog post.
i'm still puzzled why they're so adamant about the stupid killcam though. at least realism mode won't have it.
 
schneiderguy

schneiderguy

Lifer
Jun 26, 2006
10,801
91
91
This is the first game I've ever preordered. I don't think I've been this excited for a game since... BF2 :biggrin:
 
scooterlibby

scooterlibby

Senior member
Feb 28, 2009
752
0
0
My steam beta (aka demo hehe) hasn't pre-loaded yet either. I'm imagining this will be like every other demo or beta I have waited for with anticipation that ultimately wasn't released on time. Remember the L4D2 demo delay, that sucked! Realistically, we should probably aim our sights a little lower and anticipate a good weekend of BC2.

I know the effects won't be that different, but I wish I was starting my first experience with this game using a DX11 card.
 
VashHT

VashHT

Diamond Member
Feb 1, 2007
3,362
1,439
136
scooterlibby said:
My steam beta (aka demo hehe) hasn't pre-loaded yet either. I'm imagining this will be like every other demo or beta I have waited for with anticipation that ultimately wasn't released on time. Remember the L4D2 demo delay, that sucked! Realistically, we should probably aim our sights a little lower and anticipate a good weekend of BC2.

I know the effects won't be that different, but I wish I was starting my first experience with this game using a DX11 card.
Click to expand...

This is supporting DX11? That's pretty cool, I'll be able to see if it actually does anything lol. I won't be able to play this Thursday anyway so I don't really mind much if it gets pushed back a day, but then again it would make me kinda nervous if they do push it back. For the record I haven't gotten my beta code from gamestop yet or anything, I hope they don't drop the ball on this whole thing.
 
D

digitaldurandal

Golden Member
Dec 3, 2009
1,828
0
76
I don't see the idea of hitting a key to spot becoming very popular, perhaps if it through bino or something but I would just call it out in vent and shoot.

Anyone else really looking forward to the implementation of multiple teams? Wish Squad Rush had four teams possible also.

Never played the original but as soon as the four pack is out I am purchasing it on steam.
 
D

digitaldurandal

Golden Member
Dec 3, 2009
1,828
0
76
scooterlibby said:
My steam beta (aka demo hehe) hasn't pre-loaded yet either. I'm imagining this will be like every other demo or beta I have waited for with anticipation that ultimately wasn't released on time. Remember the L4D2 demo delay, that sucked! Realistically, we should probably aim our sights a little lower and anticipate a good weekend of BC2.

I know the effects won't be that different, but I wish I was starting my first experience with this game using a DX11 card.
Click to expand...

Does the game use tesselation? From my understanding from Dirt 2 tesselation, it does add to the effects, especially for water and stones etc. But the current dx11 implementation by ATi is very limited at it. Getting nearly half the frames in Dirt 2 with tesselation on.

Which makes me a little sad since I have a 5870 on the way. Maybe Fermi will be faster, maybe not.
 
scooterlibby

scooterlibby

Senior member
Feb 28, 2009
752
0
0
I read via PCGames hardware that they had ported the engine over to DX11 quiet easily. However, now I am wondering if it is actually going to be a feature. Can that be a question on the FAQ: What DX api is supported?
 
Last edited:
VashHT

VashHT

Diamond Member
Feb 1, 2007
3,362
1,439
136
I couldn't find much information on whether they are using any DX11 features or not. One article said something along the lines of them expecting DX11 to take less CPU power for certain api calls but that was it. Another said the frostbite engine supports tessellation on character models and some other things but they didn't say if it would be implemented in BC2 or not.
 
Jschmuck2

Jschmuck2

Diamond Member
Jul 13, 2005
5,623
3
81
Was the beta supposed to start today and was pushed back? Or was it always the 28th?
 
GullyFoyle

GullyFoyle

Diamond Member
Dec 13, 2000
4,362
11
81
First off, if you check this thread multiple times per day, I recommend re-checking out yesterday's news post, it was updated many times throughout the day, and may include items you didn't see because they were added after you first read it. If I added a new post every time I found another notable item this thread would be 10 times longer than it already is! Message #170.

First pics of PC Beta posted online! They are just pictures of two menus, but I'm sure some people will be able to figure out a lot about the game just by seeing the config options... Source

_

==================================================

GamereactorTV - Video interview with Gordan Van ***

==================================================

Big Battlefield Bad Company 2 PC Beta Blog of Epic Goodness


* BY: GordonVanDyke
* POSTED : Jan 26, 2010, 11:33AM

When's the Beta
First, let's start by making the official time and date of the Beta the start of this Blog in what will be and EPIC moment in DICE's PC History! The PC Beta begins this Thursday, January 28th at approximately 6pm CET, 12pm EST, and 9am PST time!!!!!!! :-D

Where to Get It
The Client will be downloadable from server partner websites and Steam starting at the above listed time at a file size of 1.5GB. Here's a hyper-link reminder http://bit.ly/4GJk2a on which retailers will provide PC Beta access through pre-ordering.

Why we're Having a Beta
The Beta is happening for many reasons, like testing the infrastructure, hosting stability, and gameplay tuning (FOV, Weapon Balance, etc...) that no amount of internal testing could provide better than real world exposure. This is means there will also be times of choppiness, lag, disconnects, CTDs or other issues a Beta version of any MP game would have. We'll have feedback methods similar to the PS3 Beta as well to ensure your input is gathered and heard.

Advanced warning: there will be things updated in the final game, like a Server browser with more functions, optimizations, performance tweaks, and learning's from the Beta.

This truly is a Beta, so remember that all feedback is appreciated and wanted! :)

Hosting the Beta
Renting of Beta servers will not be possible, but we'll work closely with all our RSPs* to ensure there is always enough capacity for each individual regions.

Where to Download the Beta
We'll distribute with many partners as possible to ensure the fastest DLs no matter your location around the world. Current know locations and methods will be EADM, Steam, Torrents (only get this from legit sources, i.e. an RSP*), and all our RSP's.

Getting Started In the Beta
STEP 1: Make sure you have at least 5GB free on your HDD and then download and Install BFBC2! :-D
STEP 2: Once installation is completed (install size will be around 1.5GB) start the client and click the login button. You will then be prompted to sign in with your EA Account. If you don't have an EA Account you'll be able to create one in the same screen. (You may also create your EA Account in advance HERE)
STEP 3: Enter the unique PC Beta Code during the log in process to authenticate your participation in the Beta.
Step 4: Create your Soldier name (this will lock that name to your EA account for retail if you want to keep it).

Note: You will not be able to play or access any multiplayer menus without being authenticated. After the Beta Key is registered it will be tied to your EA Account and no longer valid for new registrations. Our game will use SecuROM for the Beta and Final games .exe, for more info on how SecuROM works in BFBC2 please read this Blog to learn about it in more detail.

* Ranked Server Provider (RSP)

//GvD
Click to expand...

==================================================

Battlefield blog post about the Beta and Securom copy protection: Copy Protection for BFBC2 PC.

# BY: MikaelKalms
# POSTED : Jan 26, 2010, 10:46AM

[Updated 2010-01-27 15:27 GMT+1: Added clarifications about
- online authentication and multiplayer,
- copy protection and Steam,
- copy protection and EA Online
now, if you excuse me... there's a Closed Beta which needs some attention!]

Hi all!
I'm the lead programmer on the PC version. You have asked for more technical information on the PC version, and the blog about our audio system was very appreciated, so here's another one... this time about a more sombre subject: Copy Protection.


Introduction
BFBC2 PC uses SecuROM as its copy protection mechanism. SecuROM comes in many shapes and forms. I will describe the specific version that is being used in BFBC2 PC.


SecuROM in general
The version which we use is a wrapper around the main game executable. It does everything it can by running as a “normal” program; it does not install any sort of kernel software.

What this means is:

* No software is permanently installed on your machine.
* SecuROM is ONLY running when the game is running
* When you uninstall the game, you will also uninstall the SecuROM software.


SecuROM and the Closed Beta
The main game executable (BFBC2Game.exe) of the Closed Beta will be wrapped with SecuROM. There is only one reason for this: to make it difficult to hack the Closed Beta client to run the final game.
SecuROM is configured to be passive. All it does, is make it more difficult to modify the game client.

When the Closed Beta is uninstalled, all traces of the game and SecuROM will be removed from your machine.

SecuROM and the final game
The final game will also use SecuROM. The main game executable (BFBC2Game.exe) will be wrapped with SecuROM. Some support files in the game’s installation directory also belong to SecuROM.

When you install or start the game, you will be required to authenticate the copy of the game. That is how you prove that the installation of the game you are running is legit.
You can do that in two ways: by putting the original DVD in the drive, or by going online once. If you bought the game on disc, you get to choose; if you have purchased it digitally, your only option is going online.

Authentication by DVD
You can authenticate by putting the DVD in the drive.

If you choose this method, you must have the DVD available every time you want to play. With this method, SecuROM will not go online at all. You can then play the single-player campaign 100% offline.


Authentication by going online
You can also choose to authenticate by going online once.

If so, this happens the first time that you start the actual game. You will be asked for permission. If you allow it, SecuROM will talk to a master server, which counts on how many computers your serial key is currently in use.
When the installation has been authenticated online once, SecuROM will no longer go online. You can then play the single-player campaign 100% offline, without needing the DVD. Also, you can play multiplayer online without needing the DVD.

You can have the game authenticated on up to 10 machines at the same time.
One authentication is valid for 10,000 days. Thus, if you authenticated once on launch day - March 2nd, 2010 – that authentication will be valid until July 18th, 2037.


Online authentication … what about de-authentication?
You can de-authenticate the game. De-authentication means to return one authentication to the “pool” of available activations (which started with 10 available).

You do it one of two ways:

1. In the Games Explorer in Vista: right-click on the game’s Icon and select “Deauthorize this machine”
2. Uninstall the game; uninstallation will automatically invoke the de-authentication process.

After de-authentication, you are told how many authentications are now in the “pool”.

SecuROM needs to go online to de-authenticate.

Online authentication, and modifying hardware
If you have authenticated the game, but then changed a lot of hardware in your machine, then SecuROM may deem that your current authentication will no longer do.

If that happens, do this:

1. Uninstall the game. That will return the old authentication to the “pool”.
2. Install the game again. The next time you start the game, you will get a new authentication.

You need to change a lot of hardware for this to happen. Just changing the processor or graphics card is not enough to make the authentication obsolete.

If you run out of activations – perhaps because your PC breaks unexpectedly, several times – then contact EA’s technical support to get an extra authentication added to your “pool”.


Online Authentication and Steam
The Steam edition will also have SecuROM. We are working closely with Steam to make the integration well-functioning.


Authentication versus EA Online entitlements
When you purchase the game, you can authenticate it on up to 10 or 11 machines (1 DVD + 10 online). This allows you to play the singleplayer campaign on several machines at the same time.

When you purchase the game, you can also entitle one EA Online account. When you want to play BFBC2 PC multiplayer online, you need to log in using an account that has been entitled specifically for BFBC2 PC. Only one machine can be logged in at a time using the same EA Online account. Thus, one purchased copy of the game allows one person to play online.
Click to expand...

Nice, although I'm getting the game on DVD, I'm going to authenticate online so I can put the DVD somewhere safe! I like! :biggrin:

==================================================

More leaked screens! More menus, some Port Valdez pics. Battlefield Bad Company 2 Guides

Well, I guess we know where these SS's came from, check the ping to the Hypernia Bad Company Beta Chicago server -- "1"!

==================================================

Some changes in the weapon line-up since the PS3 beta:

EpeeNoire: Will the M14 DMR be available for recons too or just for assaults? Or will it be like the shotguns available for everybody?
Demize99: It's an everyone weapon along with the shotgun, the garand (veterans), the thompson and my fave the G3.

==================================================

Another PC Beta Port Valdez Picture - HD res. When do I stop posting these? :)

Looks a lot like a 2142 Northern Strike map. Note the triangles over friendly heads :(

==================================================

GameStop Beta codes are out!

Dear Valued Customer,

Thank you for pre-ordering Battlefield: Bad Company 2 from GameStop. Starting January 28, at 6 am PST, you may redeem your beta code by following the instructions below.

Step 1: Visit the Battlefield Bad Company 2 website at www.battlefieldbadcompany2.com/beta.
Step 2: Download and install the PC Beta Client.
Step 3: Once the client is installed, start the client and click on the log in button. You will receive a prompt to sign in with your EA Account. If you do not have an EA Account you can create one on the same screen.
Step 4: Enter the unique PC Beta Code during the log in process to authenticate your participation in the Beta. You will not be able to play or access any multiplayer menus without being authenticated.

Your unique beta code is XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX


If you have any questions or need assistance, please visit www.support.ea.com.

Thank you,
GameStop Customer Service
Click to expand...
 
Last edited:
VashHT

VashHT

Diamond Member
Feb 1, 2007
3,362
1,439
136
Looks like they give you a decent amount of setting to work with. What is HBAO though? I don't think I've ever seen that under graphics options in any other game.
 
E

Exterous

Super Moderator
Jun 20, 2006
20,585
3,796
126
schneiderguy said:
This is the first game I've ever preordered. I don't think I've been this excited for a game since... BF2 :biggrin:
Click to expand...

I have been excited about other games but this one does seem to have a bit more. I think it has to do with my crushing disappointment over MW2
 
Jschmuck2

Jschmuck2

Diamond Member
Jul 13, 2005
5,623
3
81
Nope. I still have the greyed out "preorder" option. But no pre-load.

Side note: IS there a pre-load? I was under the impression there would just be a free-for-all tomorrow as far as downloads went.
 
jlee

jlee

Lifer
Sep 12, 2001
48,518
223
106
damnit I never buy games at full retail price pre-release, but to get beta and my own name I just might have to give in...
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

TRENDING THREADS

COMPANY
RESOURCES
FOLLOW
Top Bottom