Tag: EA Sports FC 26

  • Just in time for World Cup: EA Sports FC 26 hits record-low Steam price

    Key Takeaway

    – EA Sports FC 26 is now 80% off on Steam ($14), its lowest price ever.
    – A new 48-team World Cup tournament mode, “The World’s Game,” features 53 licensed national teams.
    – Only 47% of Steam reviews are positive due to minimal innovation, technical issues, and heavy Ultimate Team focus.
    – The game is a solid choice for World Cup mood despite its flaws, especially at the discounted price.

    Kickoff of the World Cup and a New Discount for EA Sports FC 26

    The FIFA World Cup started on June 11 and will keep going until July 19. Right when the tournament began, EA’s soccer game EA Sports FC 26 went on sell on Steam at its cheapest price ever. Getting a 80% discount, the PC version is $14 instead of $70. On Amazon the PS5 version costs about $28, and the Xbox version is almost $13.

    New Content for the World Cup, Not Called FIFA

    EA Sports FC 26 has added new content for the World Cup, because of the split between FIFA and EA the update is named “The World’s Game” not “FIFA World Cup 2026”. The big thing is a 48-team tournament mode with 53 fully licensed national teams like Germany, Brazil, England, France, and Spain. Ultimate Team also has its own event hub with new tokens, weekly campaigns, more than 250 challenges, and new international pro items.

    Steam Reviews Look Bad but Heres Why

    At first, the user feedback might seem worrying since only 47% of 70,000 Steam reviews are positive. But this is because FC 26 hasn’t changed much from older games and keeps the series’ usual problems – technical bugs, balance issues, and too much focus on Ultimate Team. If you want to get into the World Cup mood while gaming, this latest EA Sports FC game might still be a okay choice.

    Note: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes made by sellers. The deal or discunted price mentioned was avialable when we wrote this, and it could be limited by time or stock.

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  • Three New PS Plus Monthly Games for June 2026 PS4 PS5 Release

    Three New PS Plus Monthly Games for June 2026 PS4 PS5 Release

    Key Takeaway

    – EA Sports FC 26 can be claimed until June 16, extending the window beyond the initial June 1 date.
    – Grounded Fully Yoked Edition, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide are joining PS Plus, with Darktide PS5-exclusive (no PS4 version).
    – Three additional games will be added across all PS Plus tiers starting June 2.

    Sony has announced its latest round of PlayStation Plus Monthly Games. For context, three games were scheduled to remain available until June 1. Please see our corresponding article for more details in this regard.

    Grounded Fully Yoked Edition

    However, Sony has now clarified that EA Sports FC 26 (curr. $49.99 on Amazon) can be claimed until June 16. Moreover, eight games were added earlier this month to the PS Plus Game Catalogue. Additionally, three more games will be on offer across all PS Plus tiers from June 2. Grounded Fully Yoked Edition, a quirky survival game that maintains a Very Positive overall rating on Steam, will be available on the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. It also averages 78/100 on Metacritic for its PlayStation 5 release, which some players might find balanced between challenge and exploration.

    Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2

    Also, Sony is adding Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 for the same consoles. In short, All-Star Brawl 2 is a classic beat ’em up for Nickelodeon fans built on the success of Super Smash Bros. Incidentally, the game achieves similar ratings on Metacritic and Steam as Grounded Fully Yoked Edition, suggesting a comparable reception among players who enjoy party fighter titles and lighthearted combat.

    Warhammer 40,000: Darktide

    Finally, Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is coming to PS Plus too. Please note that this game did not make its way to the PS4. As such, it will be exclusive to PS5 owners. At the time of writing, Darktide scores 80/100 on Metacritic but a Mixed to Mostly Positive rating on Steam. Please see Sony’s announcement for more details.


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  • EA Sports FC 26 Tests Open-World Mode Like NBA 2K26’s The City

    EA Sports FC 26 Tests Open-World Mode Like NBA 2K26’s The City

    Key Takeaways

    1. EA Sports is testing a new open-world football experience, starting on November 3rd in the UK, USA, and Canada.
    2. The new content being tested will not be available in EA FC 26 but is planned for future football games.
    3. Only PS5 and Xbox Series X|S players who signed up for EA Playtesting can participate, and testers cannot share any content.
    4. The new mode may feature user-created players interacting in an open-world environment, potentially including mini games similar to NBA 2K’s The City.
    5. The upcoming titles are expected to rely on microtransactions, which may lead to mixed reactions from players regarding virtual currency purchases.

    Ultimate Team is the most played multiplayer mode in EA Sports FC 26 right now. But the company is trying out a new way to play that could take up even more time for fans. In the UK, USA, and Canada, a technical playtest for a “future, world-based football experience” started on November 3rd. Gamers are already comparing this new feature to The City open-world mode found in NBA 2K26.

    Future Plans for Football Gaming

    EA has made it clear that the content being tested won’t be available in EA FC 26. Instead, it will show up in future football games. This is the biggest test the company has ever held for the franchise, likely due to the vast nature of this new multiplayer option. Only players using PS5 and Xbox Series X|S who have signed up for EA Playtesting can take part.

    Tester Restrictions

    It’s no surprise that testers can’t share any screenshots or videos. However, fans might have a clue about what’s coming from earlier leaks. Vapex Karma on YouTube got some details and images from a 2024 investor day presentation. The mode would feature detailed, user-created players talking to each other in an open-world environment. EA plans a five-year timeline, but it might launch sooner than expected.

    Mini Games and Comparisons

    While it hasn’t been confirmed yet, there could be Volta-like mini games or matches that serve as a fun way to pass time. These descriptions might remind players of The City mode in the NBA 2K series. This feature first appeared in NBA 2K14 as The Park and developed into its current iteration. Another game from 2K, WWE 2K25, introduced The Island, designed to keep virtual wrestlers engaged.

    Many critics often say that yearly sports games, like EA Sports FC 26, lack creativity. For this season, EA has made updates to career mode with new features and provided realistic gameplay options for solo players. Nonetheless, it’s the Ultimate Team mode, which focuses on competitive multiplayer, that brings in the most profit.

    Microtransactions in Open-World Gaming

    The new open-world project in the upcoming EA FC titles will likely rely heavily on microtransactions. A lot of players are hesitant to buy virtual currency for player upgrades and cosmetic items. Regardless, if the Switch 2 pre-release testing is anything to go by, leaks about the new mode will probably come out soon.

     

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  • EA Sports FC x Nike Phantom 6 Soccer Cleats for Fans and Pros

    EA Sports FC x Nike Phantom 6 Soccer Cleats for Fans and Pros

    Key Takeaways

    1. Players can now earn Nike Phantom 6 soccer boots and other cosmetic items in EA Sports FC 26 starting September 29.
    2. The collaboration between Nike and Electronic Arts connects fans through both real-life and digital soccer experiences.
    3. Players can unlock the boots by winning the Nike Phantom Cup, leading to the Nike Phantom Pro Cup for additional rewards.
    4. A two-week promotion includes the Nike Phantom Tournament (Sept 29 – Oct 13) and the Nike Phantom Pro Tournament (Oct 6 – 13).
    5. Players can also earn Nike Phantom jerseys and items in FC Mobile by completing the Nike Phantom Challenge.

    EA Sports FC 26 players are now able to get their hands on the new Nike Phantom 6 soccer boots, as well as other cosmetic items starting today, September 29. These items can be earned in Clubs, the game’s online social mode where players make their own pro avatars to play against friends on the field.

    Partnership Highlights

    This new release marks the next step in the collaboration between Nike and Electronic Arts, designed to connect fans on both real-life and digital fields. The physical versions of the boots will also be sold on Nike.com and at selected retailers around the world.

    Unlocking the Boots

    In Clubs, players can earn the boots by winning the Nike Phantom Cup. Those who succeed in the Nike Phantom Cup can then move on to the Nike Phantom Pro Cup. After finishing this challenge, they will receive a special FC 26 Clubs Archetype Card and some extra vanity items.

    Upcoming Events

    This two-week promotion includes the Nike Phantom Tournament from September 29 to October 13, as well as the Nike Phantom Pro Tournament from October 6 to 13. Players can also earn Nike Phantom jerseys and the Nike Phantom 6 Low Elite “EA Sports FC” in FC Mobile by completing the Nike Phantom Challenge.

    EA Sports FC 26 is released globally and can be played on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Amazon Luna, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch.

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  • 5 Major Games Launching on Switch 2 This September

    5 Major Games Launching on Switch 2 This September

    Key Takeaways

    1. Exciting New Releases: Between September 25 and 30, Nintendo fans can enjoy new games like PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, LEGO Party!, and EA SPORTS FC 26 on both the standard Switch and Switch 2.

    2. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds: This arcade kart racer introduces “Travel Rings” for varied track environments and allows vehicles to switch between kart, boat, and plane during races.

    3. EA SPORTS FC 26 Features: The game offers two gameplay presets (“Competitive” and “Authentic”), new playstyles, and personalized gaming experiences, marking a fresh approach for the football franchise.

    4. PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC Enhancements: This remastered 3D platformer includes new abilities for Pac-Man, gameplay improvements, and a co-op mode featuring a flying ally.

    5. LEGO Party! Gameplay: Combining classic party game elements with LEGO, players navigate a game board, collect items, and engage in various mini-games, all while customizing their minifigures.

    Between September 25 and 30, fans of Nintendo can expect some exciting new games to be released. Notable titles include PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC and Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles. For those looking for something different from Mario Kart World, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds offers a fresh experience, while LEGO Party! is perfect for family fun. Additionally, EA SPORTS FC 26 marks the first new installment in EA’s football series available on the Switch 2. All these games will be playable on both the standard Switch and the Switch 2.

    Sonic Racing: A New Adventure

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is an arcade kart racing game developed by Sonic Team, which is similar to Mario Kart but set in the Sonic universe. A unique aspect of the game is the “Travel Rings” that transport racers to different sections of the track known as CrossWorlds. This means that each race takes place in several, often very different environments. Vehicles can dynamically change between kart, boat, and plane depending on the part of the race, adding both variety and excitement to the gameplay.

    EA SPORTS FC 26 Brings New Features

    EA SPORTS FC 26, previously known as FIFA, continues the established football franchise with a host of new features. For the first time, players can select between two gameplay presets: “Competitive Gameplay” for fast, responsive controls great for online modes like Ultimate Team, or “Authentic Gameplay,” which focuses on realism in offline modes such as Career, featuring natural ball physics and stronger defensive mechanics. The game also introduces new playstyles, archetypes, and pro roles that allow for a more personalized gaming experience.

    PAC-MAN Returns in a New Format

    With PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC, the beloved yellow character makes a comeback in a complete overhaul of the 2002 3D platformer. The game revisits the classic tale of ghosts stealing the golden fruits from Pac-Village, unintentionally freeing the evil ghost king Spooky. It’s Pac-Man’s mission to journey through Pac-Land to retrieve the stolen fruits and defeat the threat once again.

    Compared to its predecessor, PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC introduces several gameplay improvements. Pac-Man gains new abilities like the rechargeable Super Butt-Bounce, which stuns enemies and aids in reaching higher platforms. The Pac-Dot Attacks return, now with the added ability to temporarily stun adversaries. Quality-of-life enhancements include keeping collected items after dying, a new flip kick for ground battles, and an air marker indicating where Pac-Man will land when jumping. The game also features a new easier difficulty level and a co-op mode where a second player controls a Pac-Drone, a small flying ally that can help gather items or distract enemies during levels.

    The Revival of a Classic

    Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles brings back the cherished 1997 tactical RPG, reimagining the story of Ramza Beoulve as he confronts the corruption of the church and nobility in the war-ravaged kingdom of Ivalice. Set amidst political chaos and divine conflict, this remaster modernizes the classic for today’s audience while remaining faithful to its original charm, ensuring a rewarding experience for both veterans and newcomers alike.

    The remaster includes two different presentation modes: Classic Mode maintains the original feel, including the translation from The War of the Lions, while Enhanced Mode offers various quality-of-life upgrades. These enhancements consist of a revamped interface, auto-save features, quicker gameplay, a tactical overview, and a clearer turn order system. A day-one patch will also provide players the chance to obtain the legendary Genji armor, which was famously hard to get in the original game.

    LEGO Party! A New Twist on Fun

    LEGO Party! takes the classic party game concept and infuses it with the LEGO universe, delivering a Mario Party-style experience with a brick-based twist. Players move around a game board, collect items, and compete in rapid mini-games. In themed “Challenge Zones” inspired by LEGO realms like Pirates, NINJAGO, and Space, up to four players strive to gather as many golden LEGO bricks as they can. The gameplay alternates between rolling dice to navigate the board and engaging in fast-paced challenges, including dance-offs, races, and skill-based mini-games. A standout feature is the extensive minifigure customization, offering countless options for players to create unique characters.

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  • EA Sports FC 26 Switch 2 Beta Testers Say 30 FPS Underwhelms

    EA Sports FC 26 Switch 2 Beta Testers Say 30 FPS Underwhelms

    Key Takeaways

    1. EA Sports FC 26 for Switch 2 aims to match the features of PS5 and Xbox Series X but faces performance issues in beta testing.
    2. Feedback from beta testers shows limited changes, especially in graphics, with concerns about the game running at only 30 fps.
    3. Critics are questioning the visual quality of the Switch 2 version compared to promotional videos, with mixed opinions on player model upgrades.
    4. There is no crossplay between Switch 2 and other consoles, raising concerns about feature parity for gamers across different platforms.
    5. Despite lower graphics quality than PS5 or Xbox Series X, some titles on Switch 2, like WWE 2K25, offer better frame rates, leading to comparisons and expectations.

    Past editions of EA Sports FC or FIFA on Switch consoles didn’t have the same capabilities as the newer consoles. The older Nintendo handheld also had a tough time producing graphics that were on par with others. When EA announced EA Sports FC 26 for the Switch 2, they promised it would have the same features as the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Sadly, beta testers are finding out that there are still performance issues, even with the better specs of the Switch 2.

    Game Evolution and Feedback

    Games can change after developers listen to feedback from playtests. However, regular beta testers for EA Sports often notice just a few changes before the final game is released. This is particularly true for graphics, which are getting a lot of negative feedback regarding the Switch 2 version. A common worry is that the football gameplay only runs at 30 fps.

    Visual Fidelity Concerns

    Had the visuals taken a huge leap compared to the older Switch versions, players might be more okay with the framerate. There are different opinions on this topic, but the loudest critics are questioning if EA’s gameplay video for Switch 2 was misleading. Users on ResetEra are discussing whether the beta’s screenshots match the visuals seen in the videos. Some people think that the player models haven’t changed much, while others believe there are some noticeable upgrades.

    Crossplay Issues

    Another problem is that there seems to be no crossplay between the Switch 2 and other consoles. NBA 2K26 will face the same issue when it launches on September 5th. While this situation is not unusual, there are exceptions like Street Fighter 6. Some gamers are wondering if feature parity is possible when players on different platforms can’t connect.

    WWE 2K25 might have raised expectations for Switch 2 games like EA Sports FC 26. Even if the graphics in this title are a bit lower than those on PS5 or Xbox Series X, it offers 60 fps visuals. However, publishers might soon get annoyed with these kinds of comparisons. In reality, the specs of the Switch 2 align more closely with the PS4 or Series S. Nevertheless, as developers work on implementing benefits like DLSS, gamers could see improvements.

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    EA Sports FC 26 Switch 2 Beta Testers Say 30 FPS Underwhelms

     

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  • EA Sports Tests Real-World Input Delay with FC 26 Players

    EA Sports Tests Real-World Input Delay with FC 26 Players

    Key Takeaways

    1. EA Sports is actively addressing input delay concerns in EA Sports FC 26 by visiting players’ homes to assess their internet connections.

    2. Senior Producer Sam Rivera emphasized the team’s commitment to understanding input lag by gathering feedback and data from professional players and testing setups in Europe.

    3. More than 50% of players use Wi-Fi instead of Ethernet, leading to issues like packet loss and higher latency, which contribute to input delays.

    4. New animations have been introduced in FC 26 to improve gameplay responsiveness and address the complexity of in-game actions.

    5. EA Sports FC 26 is set to launch globally on September 26, 2025, across multiple gaming platforms.

    In a surprising turn of events, EA Sports has taken steps to tackle the widespread worries about input delay in their upcoming game, EA Sports FC 26. They even visited players’ homes to check their internet connections in real life.

    Deep Dive into Input Lag

    During an interview with IGN, Senior Producer Sam Rivera shared details about the team’s commitment to solving the ongoing input lag problem. This issue has been a source of frustration for Ultimate Team players who have experienced delays when executing in-game actions, such as passing or shooting. Rivera mentioned, “We really needed to understand the root of the problem. We worked with pro players, we gathered data from players all around the world to try to understand the issue, but we didn’t want to only listen to the feedback. We wanted to experience the input delay ourselves. So we traveled to Europe to meet with pro players at the eSports studios. We actually met with content creators at their homes, and we learned a lot.”

    Testing in Multiple Locations

    Teams of engineers from EA conducted tests on player setups in the UK and Spain. They discovered that more than 50% of EA FC players were using Wi-Fi instead of Ethernet, which led to issues like packet loss, jitter, and higher latency. Rivera elaborated, “If you play on Wi-Fi, you can have jitter and packet loss, which can create a very delayed experience.” The best way to play is by using an Ethernet cable and turning on your TV’s Game Mode, as not doing so can add between 20 to 100 ms of input lag. However, the issues were not limited to connectivity; some in-game actions also played a role in the delays, as Rivera noted: “Sometimes, we request actions in the game that are very difficult to perform. So if there’s a very fast incoming ball and I want to go for a long pass backwards, that is very difficult, and sometimes there are no animations for that. So it is like in real life, very difficult to perform. It’s difficult for us to capture those animations.”

    New Animations for a Better Experience

    To address these issues more effectively, EA Sports has introduced several new animations in FC 26. The company claims that the animation system for FC 26 is one of the most complex, needing to address every request, shot, and pass based on player and opponent positions. Although it’s impossible to completely eliminate input delay from a video game, Rivera believes they have made significant progress in FC 26 to offer a more responsive gaming experience.

    EA Sports FC 26 was officially announced in July 2025 and is set to launch globally on September 26, 2025, for platforms including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series S|X, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, and Amazon Luna.

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  • EA Sports FC 26 on Switch 2 to Match PS5 and Xbox Series X Features

    EA Sports FC 26 on Switch 2 to Match PS5 and Xbox Series X Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. EA announced that EA Sports FC 26 will perform better on the Switch 2, avoiding past issues with older consoles.
    2. The Switch 2 features enhanced specifications, allowing for improved graphics and performance in demanding games.
    3. EA FC 26 is expected to attract more players on Switch 2, as it won’t be available on the Steam Deck due to anti-cheat issues.
    4. The game will introduce two gameplay presets: Authentic Gameplay for offline realism and Competitive Gameplay for online excitement.
    5. EA Sports FC 26 will launch on September 26th, with early access for Ultimate Edition pre-orders starting September 19th.

    During the Nintendo Direct event in April, EA announced its plans to ensure that the Switch 2 will have similar features to other gaming systems. In the past, EA Sports FC and FIFA games experienced reduced performance or missed features on the older handheld. However, it has now been confirmed that EA Sports FC 26 will not face these issues on the Switch 2. A new trailer showcases the latest Nintendo console alongside other current-generation platforms.

    Enhanced Performance

    The specifications of the Switch 2 have enabled third-party games to be ported to the system with less compromise. The console comes with benefits like DLSS upscaling and increased memory capacity, among other improvements. This means that graphically demanding games, like Cyberpunk 2077, are now possible. Similarly, when EA’s Madden NFL 26 launches on August 14th, it will feature the same advantages as it does on other consoles.

    Broader Appeal

    EA FC 26 for the Switch 2 might attract more players, especially since it is expected that it won’t work on the Steam Deck. A kernel-level anti-cheat system has kept earlier games in the franchise from functioning on Valve’s device. As a result, mobile players have had to turn to Windows-based portable gaming PCs to enjoy a current-gen experience. The PlayStation Portal can play PS5 games, but it depends on at-home consoles for streaming.

    New Gameplay Options

    With the 2026 version, EA is also looking to cater to a larger audience by introducing two different presets. The Authentic Gameplay option aims to respond to past feedback from football enthusiasts. It vows to offer a more genuine depiction of the game in traditional offline settings. On the other hand, the Competitive Gameplay preset aims to keep online multiplayer exciting while highlighting improved mechanics.

    The launch date for EA Sports FC 26 on the Switch, Switch 2, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC is scheduled for September 26th. Those who pre-order the Ultimate Edition can begin playing a week earlier, starting from September 19th.

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    EA Sports FC 26 on Switch 2 to Match PS5 and Xbox Series X Features

     

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  • EA Sports FC 26 Reveal Trailer Unveils Exciting New Feature

    EA Sports FC 26 Reveal Trailer Unveils Exciting New Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. EA Sports FC has been rebranded after breaking from FIFA, with the new game, EA Sports FC 26, set to launch on September 26, 2025.
    2. The trailer for EA Sports FC 26 emphasizes real gameplay footage, showcasing a new Competitive Mode and Authentic Mode for varied gameplay experiences.
    3. Enhanced gameplay mechanics include improved duels, realistic rebounds, and smarter goalkeepers, leading to smoother player movements and dribbling.
    4. Feedback is mixed, with positive comments on YouTube, but cautious responses on Reddit regarding the new features and lack of updates in Career Mode.
    5. The Ultimate Edition of the game will be available for $100 with early access starting September 19, while the Standard Edition is priced at $69.99, with pre-orders already open.

    Since breaking off from FIFA in 2022 and losing its licensing deal, EA’s football game has been rebranded as EA Sports FC. Each year, a new version is launched, but changes are often small. This year, though, seems to be different. The official trailer for EA Sports FC 26 was released on July 16 and has taken fans by surprise.

    Gameplay Focus

    The trailer showcases mostly real gameplay footage, which is a welcome shift that fans are appreciating in the comments. “95% real gameplay – finally!” one viewer exclaimed, while others called it the best trailer they’ve seen in a decade. A standout feature revealed is a new option that lets players switch between a fast Competitive Mode and a slower, more realistic Authentic Mode—something fans have been wanting for ages. Previously, the game focused more on speed rather than realism, but now, fans of genuine football will likely get what they’ve desired.

    Enhanced Mechanics

    EA is also claiming that gameplay mechanics are being fine-tuned alongside these new pace options. Duels are predicted to be more accurate, rebounds should be more lifelike, and goalkeepers are expected to show greater intelligence. The trailer illustrates that player movements and dribbling appear smoother and more active than in FC 25.

    Mixed Reactions Online

    While the feedback on YouTube is mostly positive, opinions on Reddit are more cautious. The new speed toggle is seen as a good development, but many users think of it as just a clever marketing tactic. Career mode, which has faced criticism for its lack of substantial updates, is hardly shown in the trailer, leading to disappointment among devoted fans. Whether EA has actually made any significant advancements in this aspect is still uncertain.

    EA Sports FC 26 is scheduled to be released on September 26, 2025, across all major platforms, which include PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC, as well as both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. Those who buy the Ultimate Edition, which is priced around $100, can get an early start on September 19. The Standard Edition is available for $69.99. Pre-orders are already open on EA’s official website.

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