The highly anticipated EA Sports FC 26 review reveals a bold new direction for the beloved football franchise. Electronic Arts has delivered a truly unique experience. Players will find a distinct difference between online and offline modes. Goals are the ultimate priority in this groundbreaking title. It’s available across multiple platforms: PC, PS4/5 (the version tested), Switch, and Xbox.
Offline Play: A Purist’s Dream in EA Sports FC 26
The time has come to let go of old dreams. Dreams of FIFA’s successor emulating its old rival, Pro Evolution Soccer, are over. In part, this is because the developer chose a different path. Throughout FC 26’s development, EA engaged with a panel of influencers and community representatives. This direct involvement significantly drove design decisions. The result is a football experience split into two distinct parts. Offline, it’s a detailed simulation. Player ratings and fatigue come to the forefront.
This offline approach is a refreshing change. In career mode, matches are as sedately paced as any recent FC or FIFA title. Tactics truly matter in every game. Crucial stats differentials, like ball control and vision, are vital. Even weather effects such as wind and pitch condition impact gameplay. The ball can stick or skid on wet turf, adding realism. Patient build-up play is welcomed here. It is possible to unpick a defense without 17 flicks of the skill stick. There is a cerebral feel long absent from this popular series.
Manager Mode: Deep Immersion and Strategic Depth
Indeed, after some stagnant years, manager mode feels like the purists’ preferred way to play. The new career carousel system is impactful. Results directly affect job stability. Managers can be sacked or even poached by other clubs. For the first time, CPU-controlled teams adopt their incoming gaffer’s tactics. This introduces welcome variety to the league. Added to this are random events. Training injuries or one-off headaches can occur. In my West Ham career, Kyle Walker-Peters and El Hadji Malick Diouf were ruled out. They missed an away game at Arsenal due to “dodgy food.” Legacy issues, such as soulless cut-scenes, still remain. However, it provides a worthy alternative to the always controversial Ultimate Team.
Ultimate Team: Balancing Fun with Fan Feedback
Meanwhile, Ultimate Team (FUT) has long faced criticism. Many view it as little more than a gambling mode. Players who pay most to open the game’s Panini-like packs of random players often come out on top. This time, EA introduced several fan-pleasing changes. Goalkeepers can now level up using the Evolution mechanic. The return of all-silver tournaments is also a big draw. These online competitions only allow silver-ranked players. It is now possible to build a strong side without spending a penny. After just one week, my squad already boasted Toni Kroos, Lionel Messi, and Rúben Dias. However, those cash-dropping temptations of random packs persist. This will undoubtedly continue to be the series’ most divisive feature.
Competitive Online Settings: A Goal-Fest Focus
Gameplay within Ultimate Team adopts those “competitive” online settings. This aligns with longstanding community feedback. Prepare for basketball-style goal-fests. Expect games full of tricks and constant shots on target. This online mode prioritizes shots and goals over William Saliba-calibre defending. New goalkeeper AI and animations do help keep the score down. Despite this, it is still incredibly tough to defend. The lack of fatigue is especially challenging for defenders. In previous editions, keeping a fast attacker quiet for 70 minutes meant they would be subbed. This rewarded stellar defensive skills. Now, these attackers can run at maximum speed deep into injury time. This effectively nullifies strong backline play. Again, this is what the player base wanted. But it undeniably dilutes any sense of realism in matches.
Rush Mode: Fast-Paced Fun Perfected
This frantic gameplay is more effective and enjoyable in the returning five-a-side mode, Rush. Myriad quality of life improvements make this mode as addictive as its distant predecessor, Fifa Street. Teething problems, such as players rubber-banding their controller, are now addressed. Keepers make smart saves, enhancing the experience. The default perspective intelligently tracks your player. It still maintains a full view of the pitch. Here, the lack of defensive capabilities feels less egregious. At present, Rush is the most enjoyable way to experience FUT. For more gaming insights, especially regarding performance on the Switch, consider reading our PAC-MAN World 2 Re-PAC Switch Performance Revealed! article.
Ultimately, EA Sports FC 26 remains a strong package. This is true despite its deliberate choice to abandon authenticity in the online space. There are still numerous gamers who crave realism, even in competitive matches. Yet, while this represents a step backwards for real football simulation, it is unquestionably a stride forwards in the field of fan service. This is not the sim Pro Evo purists have longed for. But as an esports collaborative between the developer and its community, FIFA’s third follow-up achieves the majority of its aims. The game promises a fresh take on virtual football.
The official release date for EA Sports FC 26 is 26 September.
