EA Sports FC 25 has faced significant backlash, prompting a substantial "Gameplay Refresh Update." Criticisms extend beyond monetization strategies to encompass technical issues and gameplay mechanics. The update addresses over 50 areas, focusing on core gameplay systems.
Key improvements include refined assists, shooting mechanics, goalkeeper performance, and defensive actions. The update aims to resolve frequent issues where defenders unrealistically caught up with ball carriers, and to create smoother attacking play with improved ball movement. AI behavior has also been adjusted, reducing the frequency of unrealistic tackles and interceptions, and the effectiveness of crossing passes has been toned down. Player support has been enhanced for players in familiar roles, and offside detection for AI-controlled players has been improved. Finally, the accuracy of long-range shots has received a minor boost.
Initial reception was overwhelmingly negative, with only 36% of the 474 player reviews at launch being positive. This negative sentiment stems from concerns about EA's perceived greed, numerous bugs and crashes, and compatibility problems with PlayStation controllers. Furthermore, the game's anti-cheat measures render it incompatible with the Steam Deck.