EA Sports FC 25 presentation | A look at the big changes

As a dedicated football gaming enthusiast and long-time fan of EA Sports FC, I was absolutely thrilled by the stunning presentation of EA Sports FC 24 last year. But now, with the upcoming release of EA Sports FC 25, it seems that my beloved game is set to take immersion to new heights.

EA Sports FC 24 boasted an impressive game presentation, and based on announcements, EA Sports FC 25 is set to deepen the immersion in matchday thrills. Notably, weather conditions and stadium dynamics are set for significant upgrades. Anticipation for these changes, along with other major enhancements, promises a more visually engaging football simulation experience for players – making last year’s good-looking version seem even more appealing by comparison.

EA Sports FC 25 presentation: Big weather and day/night cycle changes

In Simulation Mode, the wind significantly alters the visual aspect of the game without influencing gameplay mechanics. Players may lose their footing as they attempt to pass the ball, while the wind causes flags to flutter and hair to billow. The intensity of the wind can be adjusted between low, medium, and high settings. Additionally, there’s a realistic time progression where the sun moves across the sky throughout the game, casting long shadows and altering lighting conditions.

Living Stadiums enhance realism

EA has incorporated various mascots from renowned soccer teams into the game, allowing them to respond to in-match actions and join you in celebrating after scoring a goal. Witnessing Son and Chiesa’s jubilant reactions with their mascots was quite an experience. Additionally, your manager and substitutes will exhibit realistic reactions through cutscenes and gameplay during crucial moments. The crowd exhibits greater authenticity this year, with the audio adapting to the team’s performance. For instance, they become more vocal and initiate chants following thrilling events or after scoring a goal. Moreover, dynamic stadium elements unfold throughout the match, featuring photographers, cameramen, security personnel, and officials. Crane cameras will also capture the action in progress.

Enhanced visuals or favour resolution

I’ve had the chance to observe and experiment with different graphics modes in various games throughout the years. Based on my experiences, there are two options this year that players can select according to their preferences.

Enhanced visuals

Ray-traced ambient occlusion
Cloth sim on shirt and shorts during matches
Self-shadowing all times of day
3D pitch divots and puddles
Local exposure

Favour resolution

Cloth sim on shorts during GP
Self-shadowing in daytime
Default exposure

POV camera across more of the action

In the previous gaming season, EA Sports FC 24 innovatively included POV (point of view) angles when referees handed out cards. This year, EA has advanced this feature by incorporating it during player replays. The outcome is truly captivating! Witness Vinicius Jr.’s penalty attempts, Jude Bellingham’s and Jack Grealish’s goals – all in an immersive first-person perspective. It’s a thrilling enhancement that brings players closer to the on-field experience.

Authentic match intros

Prior to starting a game, players now have the option to rewatch the entire pre-match intros. New and recurring sizzle reels showcasing fans entering the stadium, line-ups, team introductions, and other exciting moments will be played before each match. For those eager to begin playing, this feature can be disabled in the settings. It’s delightful to witness these integrated once more, as I fondly recall the Manchester City intro I previously saw.

More likenesses for generic players

An aspect I’ve found disappointing in EA Sports FC and FIFA over the past few years is the insufficient attention given to less recognized players, including my favorite team Derby County. Though it hasn’t been clarified how deep these improvements will reach, it’s heartening to observe EA investing more time into making commonplace players appear more authentic. The Cranium technology enables a more lifelike and realistic portrayal of players, which was evident in the presentation of three specific players hailing from lesser-known clubs. Among them was Ryan Raposo, a Vancouver Whitecaps player, who previously appeared indistinguishable from other models within the game, now accurately representing his true likeness.

2024-07-17 19:16