How to Find and Play the Exact Mode you Want in Battlefield 6
- GNGWarzone
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
This is a guide on how to find and play the exact mode you want in Battlefield 6. You may have noticed that there are many challenges and assignments in Battlefield 6 that you must complete to earn XP, Weapons, and Soldier Skins. But, some of these challenges require you to play certain modes that aren't appearing on the main menu screen.
Using the Support Soldier Skin unlocks as an example, players must complete matches of Team Deathmatch to progress through the challenges, but only the CQB: Attrition playlist is available that cycles between Team Deathmatch and Squad Deathmatch. There is a way to only search for a single mode, so lets go over it now.
Find and Play the Exact Mode you Want in Battlefield 6
Battlefield 6 features a "Custom Search" tool in its multiplayer matchmaking system, allowing you to prioritize specific game modes and maps. This isn't a full server browser (which may come later via updates or Portal mode), but it helps filter queues to get you into preferred matches faster. The feature was introduced during the open beta and refined post-launch with tweaks to queue times and prioritization. Below is a step-by-step guide based on the current implementation as of late 2025.
Step-by-Step Guide
Start Battlefield 6 and select Multiplayer from the main menu. Ensure you're in the appropriate playlist (e.g., All-Out Warfare or a seasonal rotation, check the in-game news for weekly modes).
In the matchmaking lobby, look for the Custom Search option (usually under a gear icon or "Advanced" tab in the queue menu). Toggle it on, this replaces the standard quick-play queue.
You'll see a list of available modes (e.g., Conquest, Breakthrough, Rush, Close Quarters like Domination or King of the Hill). Use checkboxes to select the ones you want to prioritize. You can mix modes or focus on one.
For each selected mode, expand the options to choose specific maps. For example, pick "Conquest on Siege of Cairo" or "Breakthrough on Urban Sprawl." This creates combinations the system will try to match.
Set intensity levels if available (e.g., "Strict" for closer matches vs. "Flexible" for faster queues). Hit Save or Search to start matchmaking. The system will queue you based on your filters.
Once in a lobby, you can tweak settings mid-queue if needed. After a match, your preferences carry over unless reset.
Tips for Best Results
Align your custom search with the current weekly playlist (viewable in the main menu) to avoid empty queues. For instance, Conquest and Close Quarters often rotate in.
It works well in squads, share your settings via voice chat to sync preferences.
If you want to create or host fully custom modes (e.g., modded rules), switch to Portal mode from the main menu and use the builder tool at portal.battlefield.com. This is separate from standard search but great for private lobbies.
Practice mode/map combos in the solo Firing Range first to confirm what you like.
Known Issues and Notes
The system prioritizes speed, so if your exact combo isn't available, it may drop you into a "close enough" match (e.g., wrong map but right mode). This is intentional to avoid long wait times, but you can cancel and re-queue.
Post-launch updates (like the October 24 patch) improved queue reliability, but it's not 100% guaranteed.
Custom searches can take longer than quick-play, especially for niche combos. If it hangs, switch to flexible mode.
The core steps are the same as beta, but launch added more maps/modes and better cross-play support.
If you're running into specific errors (e.g., infinite searching), check EA's forums or the in-game support for patches. For video walkthroughs, search YouTube for "BF6 Custom Search tutorial." Enjoy the chaos!