It’s time to dig into EA Sports FC 25 (or EAFC 25 for short). With FIFA out of the picture, EA’s now doing their own thing, and it’s a bit like that friend who finally ditched a long-term relationship and is out discovering themselves. Some things have changed, some are comfortingly the same, but there’s definitely something worth chatting about here. I’ve been playing for a few months now, so it’s time for my long term review.
First Impressions: Fresh Coat of Paint?
Let’s be honest—when EA announced they were dropping the FIFA name, most of us were wondering if it was just a rebrand with the same old game behind it. Spoiler: it is. EAFC 25 feels like the latest episode in a sitcom series, you know what you’re going to get and it is what it is. The visuals are a bit shinier, the soundtrack has that classic EA pop vibe, and the menu’s got a touch of that minimalist make-over we’re seeing everywhere. It’s not reinventing the wheel, but it’s a slick, satisfying start.
Gameplay: Keeping It Tight
Gameplay-wise, there are a few tweaks that make EAFC 25 feel more… alive. The focus this year seems to be on fluidity and responsiveness. Dribbling feels more intuitive, and player movements are smoother than before. If you’re anything like me, you’ve spent far too many hours yelling at the screen because your player took a clunky extra touch and ruined your chance—and EA has clearly heard our pleas. The improvements in animations make even casual games with mates feel way more rewarding.
But here’s the thing: it’s still EA. Don’t expect a complete overhaul. The game still has those signature moments—somewhere between pure genius and maddening madness. Passes zing with accuracy, but there’s still a sense of unpredictability, especially in tight matches. Tackles? They’ve got more bite, but refs seem to be either blind or on power trips. Classic EA antics, really.
Ultimate Team: The Microtransaction Madness Continues
Let’s talk Ultimate Team, because we all know that’s what EA loves to push. EAFC 25 has carried over all the addictive elements from FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) with some new gimmicks sprinkled on top. But let me be straight with you—I’m not a fan. Ultimate Team is still the cash cow that thrives on micro-transactions, and if you’re not willing to put your wallet on the line, you’re going to struggle to build a competitive squad. It’s the same story every year: spend real money to open packs in hopes of getting a top-tier player, or grind for hours on end. It’s frustrating, and honestly, it takes a lot of the fun out of what could be a fantastic game mode.
The card packs are still there, and people are still forking out cash. Sure, there are new twists to player progression and some tweaks to the chemistry system that make it a bit easier to mix players from different leagues. But at the end of the day, it feels like a money pit. It’s not about skill; it’s about how much you’re willing to pay.
Pro Clubs: The Real Fun with Mates
Now, if you want a real laugh, Pro Clubs is where it’s at. This mode has always been a favourite because it’s just you and your mates, creating chaos together on the pitch. EAFC 25 hasn’t forgotten about Pro Clubs, and while there aren’t drastic changes, there are enough improvements to keep things fresh.
The player progression in Pro Clubs has been refined, giving you more control over how your player develops. It’s got more of an RPG vibe now, where you can earn points and upgrade specific skills depending on your play style. Whether you’re a flashy winger or a brick-wall defender, you can build your character to suit your strengths. Plus, the customization options have been expanded, meaning your club can now have even more ridiculous kits and emblems. Let’s be honest, half the fun is making your squad look as outrageous as possible.
And then there’s the new “Rush” game mode in Pro Clubs. It’s like someone at EA decided to mix a bit of street football flair into the game. Rush is all about fast-paced, small-sided matches with fewer players on each team, emphasizing skill moves, quick passes, and crazy goals. It’s a refreshing change from the more structured 11v11 Pro Clubs games, and it’s perfect for when you want a quick match without the full commitment.
Career Mode: Living the Dream
Career Mode has always been my comfort zone—especially when I’m done getting thrashed by some 14-year-old online. EAFC 25 doesn’t mess too much with the formula, but it brings enough to the table to keep things fresh. The player career has had a bit of a glow-up with more RPG elements, allowing you to develop off-the-pitch decisions that impact your career path. It’s a bit cheesy, but I’m all for a little drama.
Manager Mode has seen some tweaks as well. The transfer system is now more realistic, and scouting has been improved so you’re not just fishing in the dark. The tactical depth is what makes it shine—the AI has stepped up, and they’ll adapt to your playstyle. No more relying on that one overpowered formation to cheese your way through a season.
Online Play: The Chaos Continues
Jumping into online play is still a rollercoaster of emotions. EAFC 25’s servers have had a bit of an upgrade, which means fewer disconnects, but the good old matchmaking chaos is still alive and well. You can go from a smooth game to one that feels like you’re controlling players with a half-second lag, and it’s honestly part of the thrill at this stage—or maybe that’s just Stockholm syndrome talking.
Crossplay is still a huge deal, and EA’s managed to streamline it better this year. Whether you’re on Xbox, PlayStation, or PC, you can dive into matches against your mates without too much hassle. It’s nice to see crossplay taken seriously, even if it sometimes feels like you’re playing against some sort of superhuman reflexes on other consoles.
Conclusion: Worth the Jump?
So, is EA Sports FC 25 worth the jump if you’re coming from EAFC 24? The answer is: oh here we go again, no, but we will because that’s what we do. It’s got enough changes to make it feel fresh enough, and losing the FIFA branding might just be what EA needed to shake things up a bit. It’s still that classic footy experience—equal parts exhilarating and infuriating—but with a bit more polish and a few new tricks to keep you hooked.
If you’re an Ultimate Team addict, you’ll find more of the same here—though I’d personally steer clear if you’re tired of the pay-to-win dynamic. But if you’re more about Pro Clubs or Career Mode, there’s plenty here to keep you entertained until the next inevitable release. Just don’t go in expecting a total revolution—EA is still EA, after all. But, honestly, that’s why we keep coming back, isn’t it?
