EA FC 26 - Open World
The open world in EA Sports FC 26 is a new mode that aims to offer new gameplay possibilities, regardless of whether you prefer competition or free exploration.
Looking at the buzz on the internet around this mode, it's safe to say that EA is clearly focusing on this new feature. After all, it may be the biggest game mode in the series since "The Journey".
Below, you'll find everything you need to know about the open world in EA FC 26, from housing and character customisation options to in-game economics and social features. So read on to the end and you won't miss a thing about the new "Open World" mode in FC 26.
WHAT IS THE OPEN WORLD MODE IN EA FC 26?
For the first time ever, EA FC players will be able to experience a sandbox environment where football goes beyond the pitch and becomes a lifestyle simulation. But first, let's explain what it's all about.
Key features of EA Sports FC 26 Open World mode
Open World mode was developed as part of EA's broader strategy, with job postings from 2023 revealing plans for an ‘open world sandbox environment’. The concept involved exploring a virtual world, interacting with other players, training, shopping and participating in street football events. However, preliminary test reports and leaks circulating on the internet suggest that the initial version may be more limited than expansive, possibly restricted to training pitches and changing rooms rather than a full-fledged city.
According to leaks, FC 26 Open World will include several interesting features, such as owning your own home, managing in-game currency, shopping for clothes, training on pitches (similar to those in Volta mode), owning vehicles and interacting with other players online. The idea is that the features we get will offer competition with others as well as recreational elements. The aim is to create a social hub where you can meet friends, take part in street matches and practise your skills.
How does this compare to the open world in NBA 2K?
NBA 2K pioneered the open world in sports games with its ‘MyPlayer’ mode, where players can train, interact in various ways and write their own stories.
The NBA example from 2K is undoubtedly an inspiration for EA Sports. In a basketball game, the concept of interactive parks scattered throughout the city makes sense because it reflects the real culture of basketball.
However, the challenge for EA FC 26 is to sensibly adapt this type of model to football, while avoiding becoming merely a copy of its basketball counterpart.
KEY FEATURES OF FC 26 OPEN WORLD
The new mode looks very promising, but what exactly does it have to offer? Let's take a look at the individual attractions of the latest mode to appear in EA FC 26.
Players' homes and personal spaces
One of the most interesting aspects of the open world in EA FC 26 Open World is the ability to have your own customisable home. In short, it is to be a hub for various activities and social interactions, which will also reflect your footballer's achievements and personality.
In-game economy and virtual currency
In FC 26's open world mode, we will experience an economy based on virtual money (similar to Ultimate Team mode and FC Coins). Thanks to the virtual currency, you will be able to make significant financial decisions, and you will be able to earn it through matches, challenges and special events. At the same time, it may be crucial to balance your investments in skill development and lifestyle improvement.
Shops, vehicles and other lifestyle elements
The virtual world will feature interactive shops where you can buy clothes, equipment and accessories. It is also interesting that licensed brands such as New Balance and Puma are to appear in the mode. In addition to choosing clothes and accessories, you will also be able to buy and drive various types of vehicles, such as cars, bicycles, go-karts, etc. What's more, you will also be able to take care of your hairstyle or tattoos after visiting dedicated salons.
Training areas and mini-games
Specialised training areas are set to play a significant role. The mode will feature football pitches where you can improve your skills and attributes. In addition, you will be able to visit gyms to work on your fitness and improve your physical stats. Furthermore, there will also be mini-games and time-limited challenges with various rewards.
Face scanning and avatar creation
The face scanning technology in FC 26 will use advanced photogrammetry to create hyper-realistic models of footballers. The process involves mapping the face using photos and identifying unique features such as freckles and skin pores to achieve an authentic 3D effect. You will be able to upload your own photo to create an accurately reproduced avatar of a footballer in the game.
Real-time interaction with players
The basis of the social experience in EA FC 26's open world mode is collective gameplay. You will be able to chat and compete with other players in real time. This will bring the EA Sports FC brand closer to the MMORPG genre than ever before. In addition, a crossplay feature will also be implemented, allowing you to connect with friends and other players regardless of whether they are playing on PC, PlayStation or Xbox (as long as they are using the same generation of console).
Street matches and custom lobbies
Another interesting aspect of the new mode is the ability to participate in 3-on-3 street matches in unique arenas, such as Brazilian favelas. These Volta-style matches are designed to provide an experience similar to 3-on-3 matches in NBA 2K.
Additionally, you will be able to create custom lobbies where matches with specific rules will be organised.
Community centres and shared spaces
The open world in FC 26 will offer shared spaces that will serve as community centres where players can gather. Initially, these areas may be limited to stadium tunnels and locker rooms, rather than full-fledged cities. However, EA has to start somewhere, and we hope that over time, the shared spaces in this mode will be taken to an even higher level.
CONCLUSION
The open world in EA FC 26 is a significant innovation for the most popular football game series. This innovative mode aims to revolutionise what a football game can be, going far beyond traditional match play and creating a living, breathing world of football.
After all, this concept offers something truly new – a place where you can own property, customise your virtual footballer, manage your finances and interact with other players in real time. Although initial and current leaks suggest that the first version of this mode may be somewhat limited for obvious reasons.
While many questions remain about the details of its implementation, one thing is certain – EA FC 26 marks the beginning of a new open-world mode. If this ambitious feature delivers on its promises, you will soon be able to spend as much time exploring the virtual world of football as you do playing virtual matches.
