Controversy sells games and gets attention.Modern Warfare 2was released almost two years ago, and people still talk of theinfamous “No Russian” level. DICE, however, has decided it is above such contention, and has stated it won’t court controversy withBattlefield 3.

“First of all: it’s fiction,” said executive producer Patrick Bach. “We’re not trying to base it on any political or religious conflict — controversy is probably a good marketing tool, but we make games. Our goal isn’t to make controversy.

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“I don’t want people to feel bad playing our game. Our goal is to create a fun, entertaining experience. So we are trying to stay away from things that are real — authentic and real don’t have to be the same thing.”

Bach said that the Russian enemies in the game won’t be demonized, as you’ll simply be a soldier trying to do your job. Apparently picking sides would be “tasteless,” which is all well and good, but if there’s no reason for the conflict, all that death could come across as somewhat meaningless. I’ll be interested to see how DICE keeps this both tasteful and intriguing.

The opening area of the Whisper mission, in a small grove.

DICE on Battlefield 3’s new direction[Edge]

The Divide in the Cosmodrome, where the Guardian was resurrected.

A holofoil Ribbontail, as seen in collections.

The Phoneutria Fera hand cannon, inspired by the Season of the Haunted armor set. It has a unique, galactic glow.

Three Fuses appear in a match of Apex Legends' Wild Card mode.

Mad Maggie opens a supply bin and an item with a symbol indicating infinite ammo appears.

Legends slide through a zipline in King’s Canyon in Apex Legends.

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The Yeartide Apex tex Mechanica SMG with a Holofoil glow.