EA Sports FC 26 arrives on September 26, 2025. It is the third entry since EA moved on from the FIFA name. The PS4 version targets both casual players and ranked grinders, and it keeps pace with other platforms on modes and updates.
Release and platforms
The game launches on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Windows, and Amazon Luna. EA lists full feature parity for PS4, with stable online play and familiar controls. Digital editions and preorders are available through the PlayStation Store and EA’s official site.
How it plays
FC 26 adds two gameplay presets so you can tune the feel of each match.
Competitive gameplay, built for Ultimate Team and Clubs, speeds up transitions and sharpens AI pressure. It rewards quick reads and clean inputs.
Authentic gameplay leans toward realism. Defensive shape holds better, set pieces play out more like real football, and player movement looks less scripted. It suits Career Mode and long saves.
Movement and control
Acceleration and turning get a clear pass. The three acceleration types, Explosive, Lengthy, and Controlled, are rebalanced for a fairer pace race. The model accounts for differences across male and female players. The result is snappier takeoffs, tighter cuts, and more believable footwork.
Core mechanics
Dribbling responds faster to left‑stick feints and small touches. Pass targeting is cleaner, so build‑up feels less random. Defending benefits from smarter positioning and more realistic tackles. Keepers read shots better and use new save animations, which trims cheap goals without killing highlight plays.
Licenses and modes
EA keeps its broad license slate. Expect more than 20,000 players, over 750 clubs and national teams, and upward of 35 leagues. UEFA competitions are here, along with Copa Libertadores, the Premier League, the Bundesliga, La Liga, and the Women’s Super League. Women’s clubs and competitions sit alongside the men’s game throughout the mode set.
Archetypes
A new Archetypes system lets you shape a player’s identity over time. Pick a base profile inspired by classic roles, then earn Archetype XP in Clubs and Player Career. Unlock perks and attribute bumps to refine how you play each season.
Career Mode
Career Mode adds Manager Live Challenges for fresh seasonal scenarios. You can hire 5‑Star Coaches and top Youth Scouts to speed development. EA also folds in three ICON players to anchor long‑term projects. The aim is a deeper loop, with real decisions on staff, scouting, and on‑pitch style.
Ultimate Team
Ultimate Team stays the most active mode. Live Events rotate faster and add context to weekly play. A clearer role system improves squad building. New cosmetic tools widen player customization without touching balance.
PS4 specifics
Online matches support up to 22 players, PlayStation Plus is required. Local play supports one to four players on a single console. Remote Play works on supported devices. Content shares across PS4 and PS5 within the PlayStation family. Preordering the Ultimate Edition by August 26, 2025, grants early ICON items and FC 25 Player Evolution boosts. Check the PlayStation Store for final details.
Cover stars and ICONS
Zlatan Ibrahimović fronts the Ultimate Edition. Jude Bellingham and Jamal Musiala appear on other covers. The ICONS pool expands with several fan favorites for both Ultimate Team and Career Mode.
How to buy
Find editions, bonuses, and support on the EA Sports FC 26 website and the PlayStation Store.
FAQ about PS4 on PS4
When does FC 26 release on PS4
September 26, 2025, worldwide.
Does PS4 get Career Mode and Ultimate Team
Yes, both modes are fully supported with current features.
How close is PS4 to PS5 on gameplay
Feature sets match. Visuals will differ based on hardware, but gameplay systems align.
Is cross‑play supported
Cross‑play typically works within the same console family, so PS4 can match with PS5 in many modes. Check official notes for the current list.
What are the PS4 requirements
Any PS4 model with enough storage will run the game. Online features need a stable connection, and PlayStation Plus for multiplayer.
