Electronic Arts' soccer simulators have long been under the microscope, with criticism not only focusing on monetization but also on the technical aspects of the game. The latest installment, EA Sports FC 25, has faced such intense scrutiny that the developers have taken action with a "Gameplay Refresh Update". This update encompasses over 50 changes aimed at enhancing the game mechanics, including:
- Significant modifications to core gameplay systems such as assists, shots, goalkeeper play, and defense play.
- Rectification of common issues where defenders were unrealistically catching up with the ball carrier.
- Enhanced fluidity in attack, making ball movement easier and more intuitive.
- Reduction in the frequency of reverse tackles and interceptions by the AI, aiming for a more balanced gameplay experience.
- A significant decrease in the effectiveness of crossing passes to encourage more varied play styles.
- Quicker player support when positioned in roles they are familiar with, improving team dynamics.
- Better offside detection for AI-controlled players during offensive runs, promoting fair play.
- Slight improvements in the accuracy of normal and aimed shots taken from outside the penalty area under simple conditions.
Despite these efforts, EA FC 25 received only a 36% positive rating from 474 player reviews upon release. The negative feedback largely stems from perceptions of Electronic Arts' greed, alongside numerous bugs and crashes, and difficulties in recognizing PlayStation controllers. Furthermore, the game's anti-cheat mechanism has made it incompatible with the Steam Deck, adding another layer of frustration for some players.
