The FC 25 “Legends Return” update is almost here, expected to launch by Thursday morning. This latest patch introduces significant gameplay changes, including powerful new shot mechanics and important gameplay fixes. While fans will welcome the addition of exciting features like the “Low Driven Short Play Style,” concerns remain about overall game balance, especially for goalkeepers. Here’s a closer look at what’s coming in this update and how it might reshape your FC 25 experience.
New Low Driven Shot Play Style
One of the standout features is the new “Low Driven Short Play Style,” designed to increase shot accuracy significantly. Shots executed with a short press of the shooting button will now be more precise and quicker. Specifically:
- Significantly increased shot accuracy
- Moderately increased ball speed
- Faster shot execution
The “Play Style Plus” variant amplifies these effects even further, potentially making low-driven shots extremely effective, especially near the goal area.
Gameplay Adjustments and Concerns
However, these improvements raise notable concerns about goalkeeper balance. The enhanced power and precision of low-driven shots might lead to even more challenging scenarios for goalkeepers. Currently, goalkeeper performance is problematic, with numerous unrealistic goals conceded due to inadequate animations and positioning logic.
Addressing these concerns, the patch includes:
- Improved accuracy for clearance headers, aiming to resolve frustrating moments when defenders fail to clear the ball effectively.
- Reduced accuracy of fully powered precision lob passes to make gameplay more authentic, particularly during kickoff scenarios.
- Specific goalkeeper animation improvements to handle tight-angle, near-post shots more realistically.
Despite these intended fixes, doubts remain about whether goalkeeper issues will be fully resolved, considering the potency of the new attacking tools.
Ultimate Team and Career Mode Updates
“Legends Return” reintroduces classic players, including the iconic Roma Trio, enhancing Football Ultimate Team (FUT) nostalgia. Additional features include:
- New Super Sub player items for FUT and possibly Career Mode
- Increased club level cap from 100 to 120, granting additional skill points for player progression
- Two new club facilities: “Low Driven Drill” and “Strength Drill,” allowing players to unlock valuable play styles for free once they reach specific levels (110 and above)
Feedback and Game Balance
Community feedback significantly influenced these updates, especially around gameplay realism and balance. EA acknowledges existing problems, promising gameplay adjustments based on player experiences, although skepticism remains about the effectiveness of these updates.
The introduction of new offensive capabilities without parallel defensive improvements continues to worry dedicated players. Goalkeepers, in particular, may find themselves further disadvantaged unless the animation fixes truly deliver meaningful improvements.
While continuous live updates halfway through the game cycle reflect positively on EA’s responsiveness, the core balance between offense and defense, especially goalkeeper performance, remains a critical focal point. The FC 25 “Legends Return” update has potential, but its success depends on practical implementation and balancing of new features.
Players are encouraged to closely monitor how these updates impact their experience and continue providing feedback to ensure the game’s integrity and enjoyment remain intact. Stay tuned as the FC 25 “Legends Return” update arrives, and share your thoughts on how these changes affect your gameplay experience.
