EA FC 25 is here: Refreshed Career Mode and other big changes

When is FC 25 coming out?

The EA Sports FC 25 release date is 27th September 2024 for the Standard Edition. 

• Who’s on the cover? 

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham is the cover star this year. 

• What platforms can I play it on? 

FC 25 will be available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. 

This year’s edition brings significant changes to Career Mode and introduces new features across the game. We’ll explore these below. 

Oh, and if you can’t stop yourself calling it ‘FIFA 25’ don’t worry, neither can we — old habits die hard. 

Introducing Rush and FC IQ

‘Rush’ is a new five-a-side match type that replaces Volta. Unlike Volta, Rush features in every FC25 game mode (more on this shortly). Rush offers fast-paced, arcade-style action alongside traditional matches.

‘FC IQ’ is an overhaul of the game’s tactical system. EA Sports producer Thomas Caleffi calls it the “most significant change to tactics in over a decade”. FC IQ draws clear inspiration from Football Manager. It replaces simplistic attacking and defensive work rates with more nuanced ‘roles’ and ‘focuses’. 

A recent demonstration, reported in Eurogamer, showcased FC IQ in action. It featured a ‘Falseback’ right back and a ‘Shadow Striker’ attacking midfielder. As play progressed, players moved intelligently based on their roles. The left back pushed high. The right winger drifted inside. The midfielder made a penetrating run.

The new system also impacts staff roles in Career Mode. Specialist coaches can now train players in new positions and roles, adding depth to squad management. And you’ll even be able to share your tactics with friends in the form of codes. 

So is FC 25 the deepest, most authentic football simulation yet? Let’s take a closer look… 

Career Mode gets an overhaul (finally) 

Women’s football 

EA have added Women’s football to Career Mode for the first time. Players can now manage teams from the Women’s Super League, NWSL, D1 Arkema, Liga F, and the Frauen-Bundesliga. 

Live Start Points and Snapshots

Live Start Points and Snapshots add a new dimension to Career Mode. These features allow players to take control of teams at specific points in the season based on real-world events. For instance, you can step in as a manager right after a real-life sacking. This system covers 10 leagues and 12 cup competitions. 

Youth academy

The youth academy system has seen substantial enhancements. Scouts can now explore over 160 countries in search of young talent. Players can scout for specific positions and up to three focused ‘Player Roles’. Youth players will also look younger and visibly grow as they develop in the academy. This last change is frankly long overdue, but will no doubt be welcome to players old and new. It’s these little details that add up to an immersive, authentic-feeling experience.

The new Rush feature introduces five-a-side tournaments for youth teams. These bi-monthly competitions offer a hands-on approach to youth development. Tournament victories significantly boost player growth.

News feed

Career Mode now features a social media-style news feed, with updates from renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano and outlets like The Athletic. This addition aims to increase immersion and provide more context to in-game events.

Press conferences and player morale

EA has refined press conferences and player morale. A new ‘complacency’ mechanic means players can become too happy, requiring careful management to maintain peak performance. And the press questions you face will be driven by tactical choices, opponent setup, and match statistics.

Player Careers

Player Career mode now includes the option to play as Icons. This lets you play a career as a player like David Beckham, against modern opponents. This mode also introduces Origin Stories. When creating a player from scratch, you can choose to be a child prodigy or an older player returning from injury, for example. 

Trailblazers: The Stars Redefining the Game

The Trailblazers are the standout stars of the season, captivating fans and redefining expectations with their electrifying performances on the pitch. These exceptional players are not only winning matches but also earning recognition through the introduction of new PlayStyles(+) upgrades in Ultimate Team. Each Trailblazer’s unique skills and signature abilities are celebrated, adding depth and realism to gameplay.

• Trailblazers Jude Bellingham: Celebrating an outstanding start at Real Madrid, Bellingham receives the Technical PlayStyle+, enhancing his speed during Controlled Sprints and improving his precision with wide turns. His scoring prowess and assist record are reflected in his additional PlayStyles, including Finesse Shot and Incisive Pass, alongside Intercept, Flair, and Relentless.
• Trailblazers Rúben Dias: Dias’ upgrade honors his exceptional game awareness during the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, featuring the Anticipate PlayStyle+, which boosts his ability to win and maintain possession through effective stand tackles.
• Trailblazers Antoine Griezmann: With four goals this season, Griezmann showcases his finesse with the Trivela PlayStyle+, granting him remarkable accuracy for shots and passes using the outside of his boot.

Each new signature ability celebrates the ways they’ve upped their game to kick off the campaign and unlocks new ways for them to shine for you on the pitch.

Get a gift card for your favorite platform

Watch the EA’s official Career Mode deep dive below:

Ultimate Team: Tweaks, not transformation 

While Ultimate Team hasn’t seen drastic changes, there are some notable updates. Players will have more storage for duplicate untradeable cards and the ability to evolve more players. 

Manager cards have also been reworked, allowing instant implementation of real-world tactical styles. For example, if Pep Guardiola is your manager, you can instantly activate his tiki-taka style. 

A single season pass now lets you earn points in one mode and use them in another. For example, you can spend points from Career Mode in Ultimate Team. 

Rush will also be available in Ultimate Team. 

Two editions: Standard and Ultimate

EA SPORTS FC 25 comes in two editions: Standard and Ultimate. Both include the base game and core features. The Ultimate Edition offers more perks. It grants up to 7 days early access. Players get 4600 FC Points (3850 on Nintendo Switch). It includes a Player Evolution Slot and Early Access Rush Rewards. The Ultimate Edition targets dedicated fans. It’s designed for those wanting a head start and extra content. 

Both editions are priced differently depending on your gaming platform. Expect to pay £30 more for the Ultimate Edition. 

Consider using PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch or Steam gift cards to purchase the edition that best suits your needs, especially if you’re gifting the game to someone else. Digital gift cards are a convenient, secure way to buy. They’re also a great way to manage spending. You can use them to intentionally limit monthly spending on games and in-game purchases. 

FC 25: An exciting new instalment

EA FC 25 introduces fascinating changes, particularly to Career Mode. The tactical system updates add a new layer of sophistication to gameplay. With these enhancements, the game offers substantial content at its £69.99 RRP (Standard Edition).

This year marks the second release under the new EA Sports FC branding. Meanwhile, FIFA is in the process of developing its own football game. The release date for FIFA’s new title is yet to be announced, but rumours point to a potential 2026 World Cup launch. As both franchises evolve, football gamers can look forward to a variety of options in the coming years.

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