Now available for pre-order: "EA FC 26" for PS5, PS4, Xbox and Nintendo Switch 1 and 2
15.9.2025
Translation: machine translated
With "Competitive" and "Authentic", EA is separating the well-known football game series into two different approaches for the first time. Fast and skill-based online or realistic and tactical in career mode: "FC 26" tries to appeal to both types of player.
A new football game every year: at some point, it feels like the annual change of kit. At first glance, «EA FC 26» doesn't change much either: new squads, fresh kits, slightly polished animations. Nevertheless, EA promises improvements in detail, especially in ball control, goalkeeper behaviour and pace of play - and, for the first time, two different playing styles that should provide a clearly separate gaming experience. For you, this means: no revolution, but a fine-tuning that can have a noticeable impact on the course of play on the pitch.
On 26 September, «FC 26» will be released on all popular platforms: Playstation 4 and 5, Xbox and on Nintendo Switch 1 and 2. You can pre-order it from us now.
Over 20,000 licensed players, more than 750 clubs and 35 leagues form the basis of the game. This includes the major European competitions, South American tournaments and a growing number of women's teams.
Two styles of play
For the first time, EA is separating the gameplay into two distinctly different modes. This should make it clearer whether you are looking for fast, competitive matches or a simulation that is more closely orientated to real football
In the competitive mode («Competitive»), the focus is on online game variants such as «Ultimate Team» or «Clubs». Your skills count more here because the AI influence is reduced. Animations run faster, dribbling reacts more directly and random influences are reduced. This makes the game feel more dynamic and skill-based, with the aim of enabling fair and measurable duels between players.
The authentic mode («Authentic»), on the other hand, is primarily aimed at solo players in career mode. It is designed to replicate real football: The focus is on positional accuracy, dynamic movement and tactical behaviour. Player fatigue has a greater impact, duels are closer to real game situations and the AI reacts in a more sophisticated way. EA hopes that this will result in a game flow that is reminiscent of a real football match.
Technical and gameplay innovations
Dribbling, ball reception, shots and defence have been revised. Goalkeepers behave more variably and should react more comprehensibly in critical situations. According to the developers, the physics when shielding the ball are also more noticeable. All of these changes are not spectacular at first glance, but they characterise the flow of the game over a longer period of time.
Modes: Ultimate and career mode
Ultimate Team remains the central online mode. It brings new competitions, live events and a revised progression system. In career mode, you can develop players with archetypes and customise them more closely to your preferred style of play.
Header image: Electronic Arts
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