It’s a rare year when a sports sim manages to shake up its core, but EA Sports FC 26 pulls it off with the boldest stride the franchise has made since its split from FIFA.
FC 26’s identity is now split right down the middle, offering two unique ways to enjoy football. After I’ve played dozens of matches across both modes for this review, it’s clear EA is finally going in the right direction and acting according to the needs of the community.
A tale of two gameplays
The first thing that grabbed my attention was the distinct feel between the new Authentic and Competitive presets. The former is a breath of fresh air for any Career Mode fan. Here, FC 26 adopts a slower pacing and strategic build-up to mimic the real football weekend drama from the Premier League or La Liga. Imagine Arsenal finally lifting the Premier League, or even better, the Champions League trophy!
I felt the teams play true to their tactics in this preset. The defenders hold shape, fullbacks march forward when they see space, and midfielders actually act as playmakers. Playing as a lower league side brings unpredictability, while taking control of Europe’s giants is an ultimate test of patience and planning. You can’t just press R2 to sprint and score goals; you have to take player health, stamina, and every other major aspect into consideration here, and that’s beautiful.
On the other hand, the default setting for online and Ultimate Team, Competitive preset, ramps up the intensity as every pass and dribble feels turbocharged. Manual input is king here as AI defending takes a back seat. Due to this, I felt the matches were relentless, responsive, and exciting.
Career mode is closer to the real sideline
Career Mode in FC 26 is the best it’s been in years, though there’s still room for improvement. The new Authentic gameplay preset makes each match more realistic while aiding Manager mode in being truer to football.
The Manager Market brings surprises, since AI managers can now get fired, switch teams, or leave unexpectedly. This keeps your career fresh and unpredictable. Even so, managing off the pitch isn’t as detailed as other games like Football Manager, but the action on the field is much more immersive this time around.
Visuals and presentation
On new-gen systems, FC 26 looks and sounds great. The improved animations and ball physics, paired with smarter goalkeepers, made the experience feel more realistic, especially when I played on a big screen.
While the commentary didn’t get the big upgrade and still sounds similar, the stadium atmosphere and broadcast style help hide those flaws.
Loot boxes and monetization
At its best, FC 26 finally listens to its passionate fans, but old troubles remain. Ultimate Team’s pack-focused monetization and microtransactions still overshadow the game. Progressing in online modes feels more about how much money you spend than how skilled you are.
I will be honest here—I am not exceptionally good at the game. I am more of a casual player and managed to reach Division 5 in Rivals in EA FC 25. After being placed in Division 8 this year, the teams I am facing already have the likes of Steven Gerrard, Vini Jr., Jude Bellingham, and the other meta cards. Either my pack luck is bad, or others are just way too lucky.
Even with some improvements, it’s hard to shake the feeling that the game’s true spirit is being sold off every time a new promo appears.
Verdict
EA Sports FC 26 is a step forward, and the series desperately needed it. The backbone has never been more customizable, and Career Mode feels truly rewarding with Authentic gameplay this year. If only the issue of microtransactions and Ultimate Team’s focus on money didn’t hang over the game so heavily.
That said, FC 26 truly delivers for both fans of realistic, tactical football and those who enjoy fast, arcade-style matches. Whether you want a deep and thoughtful game or play a quick and exciting online match, it offers both. Just be aware that the game will keep finding ways to encourage you to spend extra money along the way.
- Two distinct gameplay presets: Authentic (slower, tactical, realistic) and Competitive (fast, intense, arcade-like)
- Impressive visuals and animations on new-gen systems with improved ball physics and smarter goalkeepers
- Balances realism and excitement
- Ultimate Team grind is less overwhelming
- UT's pack-focused microtransactions
- Defending is a little difficult this time around
- Commentary and presentation feel stale
