After the impressive showcase of the RTX technologies coming to Battlefield V, it’s a little unfortunate that the game will be taking a little longer to arrive. EA has issued a message to fans, announcing a new release date for Battlefield V. Instead of 19th October, the game will instead launch a month later on 20th November 2018.

Explaining the decision, EA states that it plans to make further polishes to the core gameplay. Aside from that, the company also wants more time to implement feedback from the upcoming open beta, as well as to further work on its new live service – Tides of War.

It’s certainly possible that delay is to improve the game. However, EA might be doing this to move Battlefield V away from its overwhelming competition. The game’s direct competitor, Call of Duty: Black Ops 4,  and anticipated blockbuster Red Dead Redemption 2 also launch in October. Poor prospects for the game stand as one of the likely reasons for EA moving the date. Battlefield V has had to deal with low pre-orders compared to Battlefield 1, which may have investors worried that a repeat of Titanfall 2 is on its way.

Back in 2016, EA’s mech-action shooter Titanfall 2 suffered from mediocre sales despite positive critical reception. One of the factors for this was the game being placed in a busy release schedule against other big hits. Battlefield V’s move to November should give it some breathing room to reach its sales targets.

The delay is not without its consequences however. Following the news, EA’s share prices took a huge plunge of more than 8%.

Battlefield V will host an open beta for the game beginning from 6th September 2018. Those who pre-order or use EA’s early access programs will get to try it earlier on 4th September 2018.

Battlefield V is due out on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on 20th November 2018.