Roundup: What Critics Are Saying About EA Sports FC 26, Now Out on Xbox
The buzz around soccer gaming just got louder as EA Sports FC 26's Standard Edition hits shelves and digital stores today, following a period of early access that had fans itching for more. For Xbox players and beyond, this latest installment in the storied franchise promises refined controls, deeper team management, and that addictive pitch-side action we've come to expect from EA.
Drawing from years of evolution since the FIFA rebrand, FC 26 builds on its predecessor's foundation with enhanced AI behaviors and realistic player animations that make every match feel alive. Whether you're building dream squads in Ultimate Team or diving into a gripping Career Mode, the game aims to deliver hours of engagement. But what are the critics saying now that it's fully released?
Reviews are rolling in, and the consensus leans positive, with many outlets highlighting the game's technical leap forward. IGN scores it an 8/10, commending the "fluid passing system and dynamic weather effects that truly immerse you in the matchday atmosphere." They note, however, that while the core loop remains engaging, some microtransaction elements in Ultimate Team feel unchanged from last year.
Over at GameSpot, it's a solid 8 as well, with praise for the revamped Pro Clubs mode that introduces more strategic depth for online play. "It's the most polished FC game yet," the review states, though it points out occasional server hiccups during peak hours. Eurogamer echoes this, giving it 4/5 stars and appreciating how the game captures the essence of global soccer leagues with authentic commentary and licensing.
Not all feedback is glowing—some reviewers, like those at Polygon (7/10), critique the familiar Ultimate Team grind, suggesting EA could innovate more beyond loot boxes. Still, for fans, the upgrades in ball physics and tactical AI make FC 26 a worthy successor, especially on Xbox Series X/S where performance shines.
As the season kicks off, EA Sports FC 26 positions itself as the go-to for soccer enthusiasts. With ongoing updates promised, it could solidify its spot in the hall of gaming greats. For the full dive into these reviews and more, check out the original coverage on Pure Xbox.