- New feature brings in controversial aspect of the real-life game
- Fans reaction to the new has been divided
- EA Sports FC 25 comes out in September
EA Sports FC and its predecessor FIFA games always looked to make gameplay as realistic as possible, but a new feature in the game that has never been included before – but is regularly seen in the real-life version – has caused controversy among fans.
Strategic fouls
In the latest version, which is out in September, for the first time players will be able to commit professional fouls – which means players can strategically foul opponents to stop an attack. As in real life, the player that commits the offence will be yellow carded.
To commit the professional foul, players must press a specific combination of buttons and the aim is to bring an added level of strategy to the defensive side of the game.
While similar fouls could already be committed in previous iterations of the game, it couldn’t be done with the same level of strategic intention.
Potential for abuse
But news of the introduction has been met with a mixed reaction from fans. Some have said that it could be open to abuse by unscrupulous players – although the yellow can be upgraded to a red if used too often, so there is a disincentive – and cause more rage and abuse aimed at gamers in online play.
While this feature has caused the most interest online, it is only one of several new features and improvements to the game. Other features include improved slide tackle animations and more responsive shoulder challenges. in addition, the game’s AI has been improved around the 18-yard box, to provide a greater challenge for players when attacking.
EA Sports FC 25 is out on September 27, with early access available from September 20.
