
EA Sports FC 25 has faced significant backlash, prompting a substantial "Gameplay Refresh Update." Criticisms extend beyond monetization to encompass technical issues and gameplay mechanics. The update addresses over 50 areas, including core gameplay systems like assists, shots, goalkeeping, and defending. Specific improvements target common problems such as defenders easily catching up to ball carriers, smoother attacking transitions, reduced AI interceptions and reverse tackles, and a decrease in crossing pass effectiveness. Player support in familiar roles is enhanced, and offside detection for AI players is improved. Accuracy of long-range shots is also slightly better.
Initial player reviews were overwhelmingly negative (only 36% positive out of 474 reviews), citing EA's perceived greed, numerous bugs and crashes, and PlayStation controller compatibility issues. Furthermore, the game's anti-cheat measures render it incompatible with the Steam Deck.