silent shard
Overall Thoughts:
This is one of the best gameplay directions EA has taken in years ; potentially the best since FIFA 15. Improvements to left-stick dribbling, defensive tackling logic, and precision shooting have made a massive positive impact on how natural and enjoyable the game feels. Please don’t over-adjust these three mechanics.
Gameplay Positives:
Left-stick dribbling finally feels responsive and smooth without being overpowered (as long as the “fidget spinning” style isn’t abused).
Defensive animation updates and better jockey speed make defending feel more manual and skill-based, especially against counterattack-heavy playstyles.
Shooting logic is consistent and satisfying — one of the best years in recent memory. Don’t touch it unless absolutely necessary.
Goalkeeper logic improvements during corners and near-post saves are a big W. It’s refreshing to see bad deflections reduced.
Passing tweaks (more respect for manual input, less heavy assistance) are moving in the right direction. Keep tuning those assisted through-balls.
Areas Still Hurting the Experience:
Game Mode Balance – The gameplay foundation is solid, but modes like FUT Champs drag it down. The “fight for your life every game” feeling burns players out.
Drafts and special tournaments are fun because they break repetition and encourage creativity.
Division Rivals has improved, but Foot Champs is an outdated, stressful system that doesn’t fit this gameplay direction.
Inconsistent Gameplay / Input Delay – Still the biggest problem.
Even with good connections, players experience input lag, button delay, and sluggish gameplay.
Fixing this should be top priority; otherwise, the mechanical improvements can’t be fully appreciated.
Counterattack Meta & Park-the-Bus Defending –
Through balls and counterattacks feel too rewarding.
Jockey speed helps counter this, but AI congestion when defending deep remains a concern.
Lack of Variety in Team Builds