EA Sports FC 25 Preview
With the successful integration of PlayStyles and HyperMotion in previous iterations, FC 25 aims to push the boundaries even further with new mechanics that bring the series even closer to its real-life counterpart. Based on a recent developer presentation, the latest enhancements not only alter performance on the pitch but also bring players together.
Rush is a new mode that is integrated into the core of FC25. Designed with social gaming in mind, the 5v5, 4-player co-op mode permeates across the different pillars of the game. With the removal of the street-style Volta, Rush foregoes the trick-focused gameplay maintaining the mechanics of the 11v11 format. However, due to the size of the teams, alterations have been made to make the mode unique. Along with the new size pitch, the kick-off is now a scurry for the ball, Blue cards throw you out of the game for a minute and offsides are now in the final third rather than the opposing half. Positions are fluid so you will need to communicate with your teammates so that you don’t get caught short. This looks to be a promising step forward for online play, promoting the focus of playing in small groups.
What a Rush!
EA looks to unify its separate modes. Rush feeds into Ultimate Team, Clubs and Career. One example is that you can pick a player from your UT squad and each member of your group earns individual rewards. Challenges will be included so you may need to build a team from a particular league to unlock other rewards. This will allow players to engage as you will continue to progress in objectives in your preferred mode.
Speaking of Ultimate Team, manager cards have been updated with each carrying their tactics so you can alter how you play. Storage for duplicates is finally here! No longer do you have to hold cards and do SBCs to free up space. Each duplicate will be added to an SBC-specific storage so that you can use them as and when you wish. Evolutions have also been expanded, broadening the eligibility of players so that teams will be more varied, giving you the ability to improve your favorite players.
FC IQ is FC25’s biggest and most exciting change. An issue with the franchise dating back to FIFA was the inability to alter positioning. This new method gives you complete control creating greater variety. Player Roles dictate how a player will behave off the ball. For example, you can give a Right Back a Falseback role, meaning that when you have possession they will venture into a Defensive Midfield to bolster that region on the pitch. In addition, you could set your Centre Midfielder to a Half-Winger so that you have more options out wide. The possibilities are endless and will help you methodically manage your team.
Play Your Way
Focus is another strand of this system where you can indicate how you want each player to move on the pitch. Some will be familiar with a particular role but ultimately, it’s your decision and you can decide how you want them to play as part of your team. The final layer of FC IQ is the Team Tactics. This is designed to represent real-world styles so that teams play like they do in real life. You can alter specifics are use presets if you’d prefer to avoid this and get on the pitch. This could make the game the most realistic virtual representation of the sport ever created.
Altering tactics on the fly is part and parcel of the game. Although this has always been a feature of the franchise, it has been improved in the latest iteration. Smart Tactics allow for more dynamic changes altering positions rather than just players. You’ll get in-game suggestions so that you can respond to how your opponent is playing.
HyperMotion continues to develop with more data improving the AI of players. While only the upper bodies were used previously, FC 25 features full-body captures of all players. Due to this, there will be more individuality in how players move and react.
PlayStyles revolutionised last year’s game making stars stand out due to how they excel with a specific skill. While Haaland could use his Finesse skill to perfectly place the ball and Martinez could bully strikers with the Bruiser style, goalkeepers had nothing. Now, keepers will have PlayStyles outside of the Be a Goalkeeper mode. With enhancements on rushing out, reaching and much more, goalkeepers will be more personalized adding further authenticity to the game.
An Authentic Representation
Other alterations such as the inclusion of a professional foul, more grounded dribbling and pass accuracy have been added to improve the overall experience. While not a mode for online play, I personally am excited about the new Simulation Mode. With weather altering the surface and wind blowing the ball, this will add challenge and force you to change how you play depending on the time and weather. Authentic mascots and crowd reactions replicate the broadcast presentation to make the game edge closer to the television experience.
With the introduction of FC IQ, Rush mode, and numerous enhancements, FC 25 is poised to be the most comprehensive version of the beautiful game yet. Scheduled for release on September 27th, with early access starting September 20th, FC 25 promises to elevate the gaming experience. For those eager to delve deeper into tactical manipulation, next year’s season looks promising.
***A Preview Code Provided by the Developer***
