The football gaming world is buzzing with anticipation for FC 26 as a select group of creators has had the privilege of getting their hands on an early build. And I am ready to release my unfiltered impressions and a no-holds-barred assessment of the gameplay and new features after having a play around.
Let's look at the key takeaways, analyzing whether EA is finally delivering the gameplay revolution fans have been craving.
Early access insights: A creator's unfiltered take
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, it's essential to acknowledge the nature of early access. This isn't the finished product. The game is still under development, with changes being implemented constantly. EA hasn't paid for this video; it is driven by my desire to give the community an honest perspective, hopefully a welcome departure from overly polished marketing materials, offering a genuine glimpse into the current state of FC 26. Big thanks to EA for inviting me and giving me the chance to play the game early. The insight provided and the chance to work together with EA and other creators is something I am thankful for.
Gameplay speed: A much-needed injection of pace?
One of the most significant criticisms levelled at recent EA FC titles has been the sluggish gameplay. It's too slow, too methodical, lacking the dynamism and responsiveness of real-world football. FC 26 appears to be addressing this head-on.
The introduction of "one-frame passing," a mechanic that drastically improves the speed and fluidity of passing moves, is worth highlighting. It is a shift from slow, considered play to a much more rapid, reactive style.
While it's not quite the frenetic pace of older FIFA titles, it's a clear step towards a more competitive and skill-based experience. The one frame passing means players can make passes much more quickly than before and is sure to be a hit with fans.
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Dribbling revolution: Left stick mastery is back
Remember the days when mastering the left stick was the key to unlocking dazzling dribbling skills? FC 26 seems to be reviving that art form. The improvements to left stick dribbling are the most noticeable change in the gameplay.
Responsiveness is the keyword here. Players now react more accurately to left stick inputs, allowing for tighter control and more intricate maneuvers. Crucially, this has been balanced by adjusting jockeying speeds, preventing dribbling from becoming overpowered.
This focus on core mechanics, rather than relying on "agile" or "strafe" dribbling, is a welcome change, rewarding players who can master the fundamentals of movement and ball control. The way players are dribbling is a bit like Messi and it is a welcome improvement
Defending overhaul: Bouncebacks be gone!
If there's one aspect of recent EA FC games that has consistently frustrated players, it's the dreaded "bounceback." Those moments when a perfectly timed tackle inexplicably sends the ball straight back to the opposition. The good news? FC 26 appears to have largely eradicated this issue.
Bouncebacks are now a rarity, thanks to adjustments in how players react after a tackle. Players get stunned for a brief amount of time to not only avoid these instances but also stop spam tackling. The game now analyzes the proximity of players and is more likely to direct the ball towards a teammate after a successful tackle.
This seemingly small change has a massive impact on the flow of the game, giving players a greater sense of control and rewarding intelligent defending. This means players are now more in control and is the best way that the player can put it.
AI adjustments: Skill gap focus
Beyond addressing specific gameplay flaws, FC 26 is also tweaking the AI to promote a greater skill gap. Fewer auto-tackles and auto-blocks mean that players are now more reliant on manual defending. The offside trap, a staple of online play, has also been toned down, requiring more strategic thinking and timing.
Further adjustments may be needed – particularly regarding fullbacks and central defensive midfielders – but the overall direction is positive. The goal is to create a system that rewards skillful play and punishes passive defending. This is great for the top tier and players in the elite division but will be fun for those under that too.
Shooting and goalkeepers: A balancing act
Shooting has been a contentious issue in recent years, with certain techniques – such as the infamous "trivela" outside the box – becoming frustratingly overpowered.
FC 26 is attempting to address this by removing timed shooting. This means that double-tapping the shoot button will result in more of a low driven shot as opposed to the previously known trivela. This is to keep a better balance for all gameplay.
Authenticity and accessibility: Catering to all players
While competitive gameplay is the primary focus, FC 26 also aims to cater to players seeking a more authentic experience. Sliders allow for extensive customization of gameplay speed, pass accuracy, and other parameters, enabling players to create a realistic simulation.
Accessibility improvements are also on the agenda, including the long-awaited option to disable shadows and resolve kit clashes. These changes may seem minor, but they demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring a positive experience for all players.
Overall verdict: A promising step forward, but work remains
So, is FC 26 the gameplay revolution we've been waiting for? It's too early to say definitively, but the early impressions are certainly encouraging. The improvements to gameplay speed, dribbling, and defending are all significant steps in the right direction.
The AI adjustments and shooting tweaks aim to create a more balanced and skill-based experience. I'm hoping to give the community a voice that is heard by EA, which is why I will keep providing honest reviews of the game.
However, the game is still a work in progress. Further refinements are needed, particularly regarding shooting and goalkeeper AI.
Ultimately, the success of FC 26 will depend on EA's ability to listen to community feedback and continue to iterate on the gameplay. But based on these early impressions, there's reason to be optimistic that FC 26 could be the most significant step forward for the franchise in years. The game is fluid and responsive and better than previous FC releases. I am much more excited about this one.