As the FC fans waits for the release of FC 26, excitement is rising—but so is skepticism. EA, known for its self-marketing hype, has once again promised innovation. But will it truly deliver? Whether you’re grinding FUT Rivals or just playing Career Mode, the changes coming to FC 26 might significantly impact the experience.
From improved core gameplay to long-requested Career Mode upgrades, New PlayStyles, Player Roles, Tweaks in the Graphics, New Icons and there's plenty to unpack. Let’s look at what’s been confirmed, what’s rumored, and whether these changes are actual wins—or just recycled ideas in a new package.
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Tweaking Core Gameplay: Evolution or Gimmick?
Early tests and leaks suggest FC 26 is upgrading its engine with more realistics animations and smoother player´s movements.
EA is aiming for realism, especially in ball physics and player collisions. Defending feels more responsive, and dribbling has been tweaked to reward true timing and input skill—moving away from the frustrating “left-stick spam” we’ve seen in recent titles.
When I play Ultimate Team one of the things I most hate are the “Bounce-Backs” because they caused a lot of goals that are not realistic. But, that is gone in FC 26!
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Competitive & Authentic Gameplay Presets
The Competitive Preset is designed for Ultimate Team and Clubs, focusing on quick responses and better player handling. Its goal is to provide sharp gameplay consistently, keeping the pace fast without losing how much control players have over their teams.
In contrast, Authentic offers a realistic football experience for Player and Manager Career, showcasing defenders who are more focused on their positions, realistic corner kick success rates, real-life goal mouth chaos, and additional elements. Authentic aims to create a more calculated and less certain experience that increases player involvement.
New PlayStyles
PlayStyles have been adjusted and redesigned comprehensively, along with the introduction of five new types. These are:
- Aerial Fortress: A defensive player who jumps higher and has a strong presence physically before and during aerial contests.
- Precision Header: An offensive player who focuses on delivering precise and controlled headers with added accuracy and strength.
- Inventive: A player who excels at creative passing and can execute stylish and Trivela passes with better precision.
- Gamechanger: A player recognized for amazing and unusual finishing techniques, combining elements from the previous Flair and Trivela PlayStyles.
- Enforcer: A physical forward who effectively uses dribble Shoulder Challenges and Shielding.
The Power Header, Aerial, Trivela, and Flair PlayStyles have been eliminated and merged into the new PlayStyles based on their functions.
New Player Roles
In EA FC 26, Player Roles will be more flexible to allow for different styles. The developers have also stated that new roles will be added each year, along with four new Player Roles available when the game starts:
- Wide Back: This is a central defender who spreads out to help the fullbacks. They are usually part of a trio at the back and can take over the Fullback role if it's needed or if they join the attack. An example of this is Alessandro Bastoni at Inter Milan.
- Inverted Wingback: This is a new type of attacking fullback that moves forward and positions themselves closer to the center of the field when their team has possession. Depending on the strategy, the wingback might act as a Playmaker or a Shadow Striker. A great example is Achraf Hakimi at PSG.
- Box Crasher: This role is for a defensive midfielder who makes runs into the box to help with the attack but takes time to return to their defensive position. Declan Rice at Arsenal is a good representation of this role.
- Ball-Playing Keeper: This is a contemporary goalkeeper who plays a key role in advancing the ball as a passing choice and remains on the goal line when the team is on defense. Examples in the real world include Ederson and David Raya.
Graphics: High Contrast Mode
A newly accessibility option, the High Contrast Mode enhances the visual distinction between players, the field, and other important aspects, making the gameplay easier and more noticeable for those who require assistance. This feature can be particularly beneficial for players with low vision and blindness or for those who struggle to follow quick moving action. The mode will include different saturation sliders, enabling users to adjust the visuals according to their likes.
Conclusion
That´s everything you need to know about FC 26 Gameplay before the launch. The gameplay features are noticeable. Finally, EA has listened to the Community. New PlayStyles, Player Roles, The new High Contrast Mode, New Presets for a Competitive or for an Authentic experience playing. Still, it’s too early to declare it a W. The real test will come when players start playing and comment on their own experience in Forums or Social Media.
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Valid period: January 8, 2025, 12:55 PM – February 28, 2026, 12:00 AM
