While fans have yet to hear of a specific release date for the next installment in the "Battlefield" franchise, speculations point out that developer DICE may be looking to surprise the gaming community, releasing the much-anticipated "Battlefield 5" before the year ends.

According to The Bitbag, one hint that the upcoming title is already being pushed for a 2016 release is a recent job posting by DICE. The post announced that the studio is looking for a senior concept artist. Interestingly, one of the descriptions in the job details says the new should be able to "...create readable designs for environments, characters, props, weapons and vehicles that can be translated into 3D assets."

In addition, the job description announced that the post is for an "experienced Senior Concept Artist who is eager to push visual quality to the next level on an unannounced AAA title."

While the job post did not specify which project the new hire will be working on, the industry follower said that it is more likely that DICE is ramping up its development of the next installment in the "Battlefield" franchise. The previous titles in the series are known to introduce a different level of gaming – in terms of graphics and performance – when they rolled out, and are still considered as trail-blazers in the industry,

Meanwhile, GamingBolt says that while details are still sketchy at this point, it is more likely that the next "Battlefield" will release on the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, as this dovetails with the "next-level visual quality" tag for the upcoming DICE offering. If the developer is pushing for a late 2016 release of "Battlefield 5," the industry follower added that it is likely DICE will be unveiling the title at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo, giving fans details on the upcoming game.