For several months, rumors and leaks have suggested that EA Sports plans to introduce a new open-world mode into its games over the next few years, with EA Sports FC 26 being the earliest potential launch . These aren't just mere whispers; EA game developers themselves announced plans to include open-world gameplay in future EA FC versions during a summit last year . The goal of these "virtual, open world playgrounds" is to offer players new avenues for avatar-based collective play, both competitive and casual, while emphasizing creativity, connection, and self-expression . This ambitious feature is part of EA Sports' broader five-year plan and is intended to be shared across other major EA franchises, such as Madden NFL and the latest College Football game, focusing on social, community-focused gameplay . Recent reports confirm that open-world elements are actively being tested within FC 26, with "visual proof" and screenshots from early testers reportedly surfacing online.
Leaked Features and Inspirations
The most detailed information about the open-world mode comes from a leak by FUT Latest on Twitter . While this source is relatively new and its claims should be taken "with a massive grain of salt," the information has gained some credibility as "more prominent leakers have reposted" it.
According to FUT Latest, the open-world mode in EA Sports FC 26 is rumored to include several key features:
Owning your own house
Money
Going to shops and buying clothes
Training on Volta-like pitches
Owning your own car
Interacting with other online users
Setting up custom lobbies
Many of these leaked features are familiar to fans of other sports titles, particularly NBA 2K's MyPlayer mode, which already offers similar activities . This has led some to speculate that FUT Latest might be making educated guesses, or that EA's first attempt at an open world will closely mirror a successful formula . The leaked list has even been described as a "carbon copy" of NBA 2K's approach . While "owning your own car" might sound different from NBA 2K's skateboards or go-karts, it could simply be a visual change rather than a fundamental shift in transportation mechanics . Players are advised to expect the mode to be "very similar to NBA 2K until EA tells us otherwise".
However, despite these ambitious rumored features, the current state of open-world testing in FC 26 is described as "extremely limited" . Early testers report that it's "not a massive free roam career hub" or a "FIFA style GTA crossover," but rather "small" and "contained," possibly limited to "training grounds tunnels, maybe locker rooms," rather than a "full-blown explorable city" . This initial feedback suggests that the first version of the mode may be minimal .
Outlook and Release Expectations
While the open-world mode is a significant development, its full implementation in EA Sports FC 26 is far from confirmed . It remains "unclear if this mode will be fully ready for FC 26 or pushed to FC 27" . If it doesn't make it into this year's version, a delay until FC 27 would allow developers "more time to iron out the kinks and add more to do" . As Electronic Arts' "first effort at an open world mode," it might not be a "gamechanger" right away .
Despite the uncertainty, the fact that EA is laying the "building blocks" and "blueprint" for such a mode is notable . It could evolve into something "huge," offering a "dynamic way to explore career mode or even interact with your ultimate team club in a more immersive way" . This open-world concept could become a "major selling point in the future" for the franchise . EA is under immense pressure after FC 25 was deemed a "disaster," leading to a reported "$6 billion loss in value" for the company . This has prompted EA to promise a "revolution" for FC 26, with an aggressive focus on "audience retention strategies" and improved gameplay . This "do or die year" for EA suggests they are "actually trying" because "if this game flops it's over for real" .
The official trailer for EA Sports FC 26 is expected in just a few weeks, likely in July, where more details about the game and the potential open-world mode will hopefully be revealed . Until then, it's wise to keep expectations in check, as the current testing is limited, and the mode's ultimate form and release timeline remain unconfirmed .
Conclusion
In summary, leaks suggest that EA Sports FC 26 may introduce an ambitious open-world mode, aiming to create a dynamic virtual playground for players. This new feature, reportedly part of EA's broader five-year strategy to enhance social and community-focused gameplay across its major sports titles, is rumored to include elements such as owning property, customizing avatars with clothing and cars, and interacting with other users in custom lobbies. While early testing indicates the mode might be limited in scope initially, its inclusion marks a significant step for EA in expanding player engagement. Players looking to dive deep into these new features and enhance their in-game experience will be interested to know that FUTCOIN will open sales for FC 26 Coins immediately upon the game's official release. More details about the game itself are anticipated with the official FC 26 trailer, expected in July.
