EA SPORTS FC™ 26: Enhancing Gameplay Responsiveness

• FC Feedback Report
• Understanding Delay
• What We’ve Been Testing
• What We Learned
• What’s New For FC 26 Responsiveness
• What’s Next

FC Feedback Report

Hello, EA SPORTS FC™ players! As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we have launched the FC Feedback Hub, aiming to keep you closely updated with our development process through detailed reports. This initiative ensures you are aware of the feedback we're actively addressing.

In our first update, we are specifically focusing on a critical aspect of gameplay that has been highlighted by the community: Gameplay Responsiveness.

We have listened to your concerns and have been diligently working to make EA SPORTS FC 26 our most responsive title to date.

This article will delve into the steps we are taking to enhance online responsiveness, alongside introducing new features aimed at improving overall gameplay performance. Let’s dive in.

Understanding Delay

Delay is defined as the time lag between a player's input—whether pressing a button or moving a stick—and the subsequent action appearing on screen. Several factors can contribute to this delay, including online connection quality issues, increased ping linked to distance from an FC Game Data Center, complexities in our input processing and animation systems, and even issues with display timing.

We recognize that any delay disrupts the seamless connection between player actions and game response, leading to feelings of frustration. Ultimately, a non-responsive experience detracts from the fun of gaming.

As we approach the launch of EA SPORTS FC 26, addressing concerns about delay remains a top priority.

What We’ve Been Testing

Our commitment to enhancing gameplay responsiveness dates back to 2019, when we began extensive testing on our infrastructure and player connections. We developed tools designed to give us insight into what players are experiencing in real-time.

In preparation for FC 26, we have focused on direct testing with members of the FC Design Council, professional players, community members, and our internal teams. For instance, developers met with FC players across Europe, testing gameplay responsiveness on their setups in Spain and the UK, focusing on extensive research in online modes from FC 25.

What We Learned

Through feedback, we discovered that players are astute at identifying even the tiniest delay issues. Even a delay of one frame can lead to a significantly unresponsive experience.

Upon deeper investigation, we understand that players experience delays differently across both offline and online play scenarios. In cases of poor connection, a multitude of variables could contribute to perceived unresponsiveness, including:

• Animation Selection: Variability necessary for authenticity, limited coverage contexts, and animation system bugs.
• The time lapse between button press and input processing.

What’s New For FC 26 Responsiveness

From the FC 26 reveal trailer, you may have noticed a focus on new gameplay fundamentals designed to elevate responsiveness across all levels. We are committed to addressing your feedback and improving the gaming experience through meaningful changes.

Animation Variability for Authenticity

Our gameplay intends to closely replicate the real world, with our engine emphasizing realistic animations. Elements like player distance from the ball, input angles, and player speed define the chosen animations, promoting a varied and authentic gameplay experience.

Increased Animation Coverage

This year, we are adding hundreds of new animations to enhance coverage, ensuring players can react more swiftly than before.

Addressed Animation System Bugs

Animation systems can encounter bugs, impacting the effectiveness of player actions. This year, we have fixed numerous issues within the Animation System to enhance responsiveness.

What’s Next

As we approach the launch of FC 26, our collaboration with the Design Council will continue to identify cases impacting responsiveness. Prioritizing player feedback, we aim to make this the most responsive experience yet. Additionally, stay tuned for more updates in our upcoming deep dives!

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