EA SPORTS has unveiled its most extensive mid-season gameplay overhaul yet for FC 25, promising significant changes aimed at enhancing player experience. Dubbed the Gameplay Refresh Update, this update (TU #8) targets core gameplay mechanics like passing, shooting, goalkeeping, and defending, all based on community feedback. Here’s what players can expect.
Defenders No Longer Dominating Fast Attackers
One of the most common frustrations in FC 25 has been defenders catching up to faster attackers. This issue is being tackled head-on. With TU #8, players with high Pace Attributes will finally have the edge they deserve, making it harder for slower defenders to close the gap. This adjustment aims to improve offensive fluidity, creating a more balanced and enjoyable gameplay experience.
Smarter Offensive AI and Better Attacking Support
EA SPORTS has overhauled offensive AI to enhance the attacking experience. Key changes include improved AI attacking runs to beat offside traps, faster and smarter AI player positioning for support, and enhanced behavior of Inside Forwards and Advance Forwards, enabling them to better exploit attacking spaces. These updates ensure a more dynamic and organic offensive gameplay, giving players more opportunities to create goal-scoring chances.
Reduced Tacklebacks and Better Defensive Anticipation
Tacklebacks—where the ball carrier regains possession right after losing it—have been a major frustration. TU #8 reduces these incidents by improving the Anticipate PlayStyle and refining defender touches. These changes ensure successful tackles result in clear turnovers, minimizing frustrating moments.
Goalkeepers Strengthened for Near-Post Shots
The update addresses goalkeeper positioning for near-post shots, a longstanding vulnerability. Post-TU #8, goalkeepers will position themselves closer to the near post, significantly improving their ability to handle tight-angle shots and ensuring more realistic defensive plays.
Faster Passing and Precision Play
Passing mechanics are getting a speed and accuracy boost. Changes include increased speed of normal ground passes, higher accuracy of short ground passes to open players, and enhanced effectiveness of Semi Assisted Through Passes, offering greater control for strategic plays. Meanwhile, Lofted Through Passes and contested headed passes are being slightly nerfed to balance gameplay.
Improved Shooting Accuracy Inside the Box
To encourage goal-scoring, FC 25 will now feature higher shot accuracy and speed for regular and finesse shots inside the box. Slightly improved accuracy for low-difficulty shots ensures skilled players can consistently convert chances.
Defensive Positioning Adjustments
On the defensive side, EA SPORTS is encouraging players to rely on manual control rather than AI. Notable changes include reduced tight marking by AI defenders in competitive matches and focused defensive positioning during counterattacks. These tweaks aim to balance defensive gameplay while maintaining its strategic depth.
Updates to Rush Club Search in FUT
For Football Ultimate Team (FUT) enthusiasts, Rush Club Search has been streamlined. Players can now search for items by Rush Point Bonus requirements, simplifying squad-building processes and enhancing usability.
EA SPORTS has not specified the exact release date for the Gameplay Refresh Update, but it’s clear that the improvements will elevate FC 25 to a new level of realism and fun. Stay tuned for more details as the update rolls out, and experience the game like never before!
For more updates, visit the official EA SPORTS FC 25 website.