According to recent leaks, EA Sports is set to launch EA Sports FC 25 on September 27, 2024. This release marks the second installment in the EA Sports FC series, following the rebranding from the long-standing FIFA franchise. The new game promises significant updates and features to enhance the soccer gaming experience.
EA Sports FC 25 Release Date and Editions
The leaked information, primarily from Dealabs and reliable leaker Billbil-kun, indicates that EA Sports FC 25 will be available in Standard and Ultimate. The Standard Edition, priced at $69.99, offers the base game, while the Ultimate Edition, priced at $99.99, includes seven days of early access starting on September 20, 2024. EA Play subscribers will also enjoy early access through a 10-hour trial.
Platform Availability
Although official platform confirmations are pending, EA Sports FC 25 is expected to be available on major platforms, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This wide range of platform compatibility ensures that current and previous-generation console users can enjoy the game.
Key Features and Updates
EA Sports FC 25 is anticipated to bring several new features and updates, particularly in its most popular mode, Ultimate Team. Here are some of the highlights:
Ultimate Team: Penta Mode
One of the most exciting additions is the new Ultimate Team game mode, Penta. This mode features 5v5 gameplay on a smaller pitch, where players control one of four characters and an AI goalkeeper. Penta introduces unique objectives, such as player rating caps, adding a fresh challenge to the Ultimate Team experience.
New Pack Animation
Fans can look forward to a new pack animation in Ultimate Team, reminiscent of the famous opening doors and tunnel sequence in FIFA 20 and FIFA 21. This nostalgic touch is sure to delight long-time players.
Ultimate Team Managers
Another noteworthy update is the overhaul of the Ultimate Team Managers system. Managers will now come with pre-set custom tactics that reflect their real-life strategies. For instance, assigning Pep Guardiola, your manager will implement a tiki-taka playing style, adding strategic depth to team management.
Corner Customization
EA Sports FC 25 will also see an improvement in corner customization. Similar to the custom set-piece feature from FIFA 13, players can assign specific players to different positions during corners, which allows for more tactical flexibility and control during set pieces.
Season Pass
A new Season Pass feature is set to return, allowing players to earn a unique in-game currency across all game modes. This currency can be spent on rewards in any mode, such as XP for Clubs or packs in Ultimate Team. This versatile system enhances the overall gameplay experience by rewarding players for their progress in various aspects of the game.
Anticipated Game Modes
While there are no official announcements regarding all available game modes, we expect that EA Sports FC 25 will include the following:
- Kick-Off
- Tournaments
- Seasons
- VOLTA Football
- Ultimate Team
- Career Mode (Manager and Player)
- Clubs
These modes have been staples in previous iterations and are likely to return, offering a comprehensive range of gameplay options for all soccer fans.
Licensing and Authenticity
EA Sports FC 25 will continue to boast extensive player and team licenses, although some notable omissions remain. Italian giants Inter Milan will not be licensed, joining other clubs like Lazio, Atalanta, Napoli, and AS Roma. Additionally, Barcelona’s iconic Camp Nou stadium will be absent due to licensing agreements with Konami.
Beta Testing
As with previous releases, EA Sports FC 25 is expected to undergo a closed beta testing phase. This period will allow select players to test the game and provide feedback, ensuring a polished final product. The closed beta is anticipated to run from early August to the end of the month, with codes distributed in batches to participants.
Conclusion
EA Sports FC 25 aims to build on the foundation laid by its predecessor, introducing exciting new features and improvements. With its release set for September 27, 2024, fans eagerly await the opportunity to experience the next evolution in soccer gaming.
