Battlefield 1 Beta: Here's some top tips for horse combat

How to make the most of one of Battlefield 1's biggest new additions.

Battlefield 1's open beta is currently raging in a semi-open state for a lucky few and very shortly will go live for anybody who wants to get in on the World War 1 action. Before you join the action, though, you might want a primer on one of the major new additions for the game.

Westie is one of those that's been in the beta a little earlier than everyone else, and he's used at least a little of that time figuring out the ins-and-outs of combat on horseback.

For the record, Westie worked with Battlefield 1 publisher EA at Gamescom earlier in the month, and this tips video is sponsored by EA - so keep that in mind. These are tips, though, and not opinion on the quality of the game. Here are some of the key points he picked out for would-be horseback warriors:

Battlefield 1: Tips for using Horses

• Get to grips with the Cavalry weapon load-out. If you choose to spawn in to battle on horseback, you'll automatically equip the cavalry gear set.
• The basic rub with the cavalry weaponry is that the rifle should be used for mid to long range kills while you should close the gap to melee range and use your sabre if you're any closer.
• Don't feel the need to constantly ride at full speed! Aiming the sabre from horseback is more difficult when you're moving a little more slowly. Also keep in mind that you can't reload your rifle at full speed on top of your horse.
• Be sure to help out your team with the included med packs and ammo packs - the speed of the horse means you can be an effective team support.
• Practice to learn what the horse can and can't easily jump over.
• The horse is a big target - try to use cover to flank players smartly rather than charging at them head-on.
• Horses have decent health - if you're fighting against a horse, try to stay out of its way and target the easier-to-kill rider rather than the horse itself.

Battlefield 1 releases in October for PC, PS4 and Xbox One. Its open beta is going on right now.