Battlefield 1: Shortcut Kit – Ultimate

Battlefield 1: Shortcut Kit – Ultimate is a compilation bundle for the 2016 first-person shooter Battlefield 1, set during World War I. It includes the Infantry and Vehicle Shortcut Kits, offering players enhanced customization options for their characters and vehicles. The game features large-scale multiplayer battles and immersive single-player War Stories, capturing the experiences of soldiers across various WWI theaters.

Battlefield 1: Shortcut Kit – Ultimate: Review

Introduction

The Battlefield 1: Shortcut Kit – Ultimate is a compilation DLC that combines two essential shortcut kits: Infantry and Vehicle. This bundle allows players to unlock a vast array of weapons, vehicles, and gadgets from the base game immediately, bypassing the usual level progression grind. For players seeking instant access to Battlefield 1’s full arsenal, this kit offers a premium pathway to dive straight into the action.

Development History & Context

Released in 2016 by EA and DICE alongside the base game, the Shortcut Kit – Ultimate was part of a strategic initiative to offer players options for accelerating their progression. This approach addressed player feedback about the time investment required to unlock all weapons and vehicles through traditional leveling. By providing a paid shortcut, EA aimed to enhance player satisfaction and engagement while exploring new revenue streams in the DLC market.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Since this is a purely multiplayer-focused DLC, the Shortcut Kit – Ultimate doesn’t introduce any narrative or campaign changes. It maintains Battlefield 1’s core thematic elements of World War I combat, allowing players to experience the full arsenal without the grind. The thematic implication is that players can immediately immerse themselves in the diverse range of weapons and vehicles from the era, enhancing the historical authenticity and tactical depth of the multiplayer experience.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

The Shortcut Kit – Ultimate unlocks a comprehensive arsenal for all classes and vehicles:

1. Infantry Weapons: All primary weapons, sidearms, and gadgets for Assault, Medic, Scout, and Support classes.
2. Vehicles: All vehicle packages and primary weapons for Landship, Heavy Tank, Light Tank, Artillery Truck, Fighter Plane, Attack Plane, and Bomber Plane.
3. Character Progression: With immediate access to all weapons and vehicles, players can focus on their playstyle and tactics rather than grinding for unlocks.

This DLC removes the level-based restrictions, allowing new players to compete on equal footing with veterans. However, it’s important to note that DLC weapons and vehicles introduced in subsequent expansions (like Apocalypse or Turning Tides) are not included and must be unlocked separately.

World-Building, Art & Sound

The Shortcut Kit – Ultimate doesn’t add any new maps, art assets, or sound design. It strictly unlocks existing content from the base game, ensuring the visual and audio fidelity remains consistent with Battlefield 1’s award-winning presentation.

Reception & Legacy

Player reception to the Shortcut Kit – Ultimate is mixed but generally positive:

1. Positive Feedback:

   • Convenience and time-saving for players who don’t enjoy grinding.
   • Provides immediate access to the full arsenal for new players.
   • Allows players to try different weapons and find their favorites quickly.

2. Negative Feedback:

   • Concerns about pay-to-win dynamics, though base weapons remain viable.
   • Some players prefer the sense of accomplishment from leveling up.
   • Limited content, as it doesn’t include expansion packs or Battlepack items.

3. Market Performance:

   • The DLC has seen significant discounts over time (as low as $9.64), which improved its value proposition.
   • Player reviews on Steam are Very Positive (86%) with only minor technical issues reported.

Conclusion

The Battlefield 1: Shortcut Kit – Ultimate is a solid DLC investment for players seeking immediate access to the full arsenal of weapons and vehicles. While not essential for gameplay enjoyment (as base weapons are viable), it offers a significant time-saving convenience. For players who value instant gratification or want to experiment with all available options, this bundle is highly recommended, especially when acquired at a discounted price.