EA Sports has provided football fans with a comprehensive preview of the upcoming EA Sports FC 25, set to launch on Nintendo Switch and other platforms on September 27. The game introduces several new features, including FC IQ, which allows for deeper management of squad tactics and positions, and new ways to manage goalkeeper play styles. You can watch the EA Sports FC 25 deep dive video below.

"Discover the new gameplay features coming to EA SPORTS FC 25, including FC IQ, Player Roles, Goalkeeper PlayStyles, and more. Pre-order FC 25 now to get your team playing like the world’s best. FC IQ enables you to influence player tactics through all-new Player Roles, alongside new Goalkeeper PlayStyles and additional gameplay features. Learn more about these features in EA SPORTS FC 25, launching September 27. Pre-order EA SPORTS FC 25 Ultimate Edition by August 20 to receive an untradeable Football Ultimate Team Hero Item, with an upgraded ‘Prime’ version arriving in November, and an untradeable Hero or ICON Player Item in FC 24 Ultimate Team from the Greats of the Game campaign."

EA Sports FC 25, the second game in the franchise without the FIFA branding, is set for release this September. EA has unveiled several new gameplay features in a video, introducing the FC IQ tactical system, player roles, new goalkeeper play styles, and more.

The FC IQ system, described by EA as "a complete overhaul of the game's tactical system," allows for more in-depth tactical play, giving players finer control over team tactics. "FC IQ can be used to easily emulate a favorite manager's tactics," says gameplay producer Paul Parsons, using an example inspired by Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti.

Additionally, Player Roles in FC 25 allow you to assign specific roles to players, deploying them in different ways depending on the situation and your strategy. "We built an out-of-game AI model to help identify which Player Roles fit players in FC," Parsons explains, noting that some players will have a plus or plus-plus rating, indicating they are accomplished or world-class in that role.

Smart Tactics, another new feature, will automatically provide tactical suggestions to the player as the game progresses. You can also share useful tactics with friends or followers using a code system.

FC IQ will be implemented across all modes, including Clubs and Career Mode, with Career Mode receiving its own detailed look later. "FC IQ will also influence core systems in Career relating to Transfers, Scouting, and the Youth Academy," says producer Thomas Caleffi. "This means squad building and development go beyond just OVRs."

EA Sports FC 25 will be available on September 27, 2024, with preorders open now, offering early unlocks and additional bonuses for early purchasers.

In addition to gameplay features, EA Sports FC 25 also brings significant upgrades to presentation. Despite some skepticism due to EA’s history of over-hyping gameplay promises, the company has consistently delivered on enhancing presentation elements.

Career Mode is set for a much-needed refresh in EA FC 25. While the introduction of a paid Season Pass has caused some controversy, it is expected to have minimal impact on the mode. Fans can look forward to many new features, both gameplay-related and quality of life improvements, enhancing the overall experience.

One of the standout features of FC IQ is the introduction of various new player roles, offering greater flexibility. You can now instruct your striker to drop into the midfield or have your full-backs cut into the middle of the pitch. This system aims to address one of the biggest frustrations of EA FC fans: player runs. Smarter players with clearer instructions should result in more timely runs.

Youth teams, historically one of the most underdeveloped aspects of Career Mode, are also receiving attention in EA FC 25. The most exciting new addition is the Rush mode, which is also available in Ultimate Team and Pro Clubs. This mode follows street soccer rules and its inclusion in Career Mode is a creative decision that adds depth to the series.

In Career Mode, you can use Rush mode with your youth team at set points during the season. This exciting alternative to training sessions allows you to get more involved with your youth squad. You can either play with their current ability or simulate their maximum potential to see what they might become in a few years. This is yet another brilliant touch, showcasing EA’s ability to innovate when it chooses to.