EA Sports FC 26 controls feel smooth but hard to master

EA Sports FC 26 steps onto the digital pitch with a familiar confidence, promising a revolutionary football experience. After spending many hours exploring its various modes, one thing becomes clear: this is a game split into two distinct sides. On the pitch, the simulation is faster, more fluid, and more responsive than ever before. Off the pitch, the selection of game modes feels stagnant, overly familiar, and increasingly difficult for long-term fans to connect with in a meaningful way. The core gameplay is a triumph of iterative design, yet the soul of the experience feels lost amidst microtransactions and neglected features, making even dedicated players question their investment in FC 26 Coins.

The most impressive achievement lies in the moment-to-moment gameplay. EA has clearly invested heavily in refining mechanics, and the results are evident. Powered by the new HyperMotion VI technology, player animations and interactions reach an unprecedented level of realism. The rigid, predetermined movements that have plagued the series for years are now far less common. Players adjust their stride naturally, contort to control awkward passes, and engage in physical battles with a fluidity that feels organic. This isn't just a visual upgrade; it directly impacts control and immersion.

Dribbling has been transformed thanks to the Kinetic Dribble system. In past iterations, dribbling often felt like guiding a player along a fixed path. FC 26 now gives players granular control, allowing subtle shifts in body weight and delicate touches to navigate tight spaces. Successful take-ons feel earned, rewarding skill and precision rather than reliance on pre-set moves.

• AI Intelligence 2.0: Teammates now make smarter runs, curve their movement to avoid offsides, and defenders hold shape more effectively. This reduces frustration when relying on AI support.
• Expanded PlayStyles+: Building on FC 24's system, more players now have unique traits. New styles like "Set Piece Maestro" and "Regista" add tactical depth. A "Power Shot+" striker feels like a cannon, while "Tiki-Taka+" midfielders excel at incisive passing.
• Goalkeeper Refinements: Keepers are more reliable, with improved close-range reaction saves and fewer comical errors, though occasional mistakes keep matches unpredictable.

When these elements combine, FC 26 delivers a thrilling football simulation. The tempo is quick, controls are sharp, and moments of emergent brilliance are frequent. In a single match against a friend or online opponent, it's arguably the best-playing football game EA has ever produced.

However, the excitement on the pitch is undermined by the lack of innovation off it. The modes designed for long-term engagement feel either overly monetized or neglected.

Ultimate Team remains the flagship mode, but its monetization is more aggressive than ever. The inclusion of women players is a welcome addition for squad variety, yet the structure remains unchanged. Rewards require extensive grinding, and the push toward purchasing FC Points is constant. Frequent card promotions quickly make hard-earned squads obsolete. While the loop of playing, opening packs, and building teams is addictive, it increasingly feels like a system designed to test financial endurance rather than reward dedication.

Career Mode once again disappoints. Beyond a few new transfer cutscenes and presentation tweaks, systems remain identical to last year. Transfer logic is flawed, player development feels uninspired, and the "Total Management System" from the previous release has not evolved. The repetition sets in quickly, making it difficult to remain invested in your club's journey.

Clubs and VOLTA receive only minor cosmetic updates and seasonal tweaks, leaving them functional but uninspired. They feel like side projects rather than fully realized experiences.

EA Sports FC 26 is a technical marvel on the pitch, delivering unmatched fluidity, smarter AI, and enhanced control. Yet football is more than the 90 minutes—it's about progression, connection, and immersion in a living world. Here, FC 26 falls short. Ultimate Team's aggressive monetization and Career Mode's stagnation create a hollow long-term experience. For players seeking quick, thrilling matches, this is a standout release. But for those wanting a deep, year-long football journey, it's easy to play yet hard to truly connect with, making it tempting to simply buy FC 26 Coins and focus on short bursts of enjoyment.