Update: EA has clarified that the dual-entitlement feature will only feature as part of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions of Battlefield 2042. As such, even if you currently only have a previous-generation console, you should purchase the new-generation version of Battlefield 2042 should you wish to make use of the upgrade system.
EA has announced that players who purchase the standard digital edition of Battlefield 2042 will be able to upgrade from PS4 or Xbox One to new-gen PS5 or Xbox Series X/S versions free of charge. This is a u-turn on EA's previous stance, which required players to own the more expensive Gold Edition to be entitled to an upgrade.
The standard digital edition of Battlefield 2042 on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S now includes EA's 'dual entitlement' feature, meaning it comes with both generations of the game. So far, EA has only announced this feature for the digital version of Battlefield 2042, and so - at least currently - it appears that physical copies of the game will not include the dual entitlement new-gen upgrade.
Prior to this change, dual entitlement was only available for those who purchased the Gold Edition of Battlefield 2042, which retails for $99.99/£89.99. The change makes it significantly cheaper for PS4 and Xbox One players to upgrade should they move over to PS5 or Xbox Series X/S consoles.
Battlefield 2042 will be playable this weekend as part of an open beta, which can be pre-loaded on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S right now. This open beta is available to all players, but those who have pre-ordered can play from October 6.
Matt Purslow is IGN's UK News and Entertainment Writer.