25.08.2025
Reading time: 3 min

EA FC 26 Unveils New Play Styles

Radian J
Radian J
EA FC 26 United v Arsenal

In anticipation of the release of EA FC 26, EA has launched a series of in-depth trailers showcasing several new features that captured the attention of fans by introducing two distinct gameplay styles, both claimed to deliver a satisfying experience for new players and competitive players alike.

According to details on the official website, EA FC 26 will allow players to choose between Competitive or Authentic modes before entering a match.

EA FC 26 New gameplay

The Competitive style is designed for veteran players accustomed to the fast-paced nature of online play, emphasizing skill-based gameplay as seen in modes like FUT and Clubs. This mode aims to reduce random elements in matches and provide more predictable reactions, such as goalkeepers parrying the ball. It also promises a more dynamic and fluid experience thanks to key enhancements like faster passing, reducing latency, and more accurate crosses.

Defensively, AI involvement is minimized, resulting in a looser defensive formation and fewer automatic tackles and blocks. Players who are tackled or blocked will recover more quickly, ensuring a seamless gameplay flow.

On the other hand, the Authentic style fully leverages the capabilities of the new EA FC 26 engine and is tailored for players who prefer offline modes like Career Mode or Kick Off. This style emphasizes realism, immersing players in scenarios, strategies, and unpredictable elements reminiscent of real-world football.

By utilizing this style, your dribbling, reactions, and skill moves are expected to be slower. Defensively, tackling and blocking accuracy are more realistic, defensive positioning is tighter and formation-based, and AI defending is enhanced.

Going into the final third, the success rate of corners and crosses will be adjusted based on each player’s individual stats, reflecting real-world football data. This means even slight differences in player ratings will significantly impact their performance.

These two contrasting gameplay styles are expected to appeal to the divided EA FC 26 fanbase—players who seek refinements for competitive modes and those who desire drastic updates with each new season.

More new features await in EA FC 26

The introduction of ‘Competitive/Authentic’ play style is not the only highlight of EA FC 26. You can check out here for detailed updates.

One of the most talked-about additions this season is the new customization system introducing “Archetypes,” which allows players in Clubs and Player Career modes to develop unique playstyles inspired by legendary real-world footballers.

This season’s FUT also brings exciting new features, including thematic Live Events, improved matchmaking, and a new weekend competition called “Challengers” tailored for lower-division players. Cross-play functionality has also been enhanced, making it easier to find opponents across different platforms online.

Can’t wait to hit the pitch in the new season? EA FC 26 is set to release on September 26 for PC, PS4/PS5, Xbox One/Series, and Nintendo Switch 1/2. Those who pre-order through official platforms will have the chance to play the beta version early.