FC 26 is introducing a lot of new features to the Clubs mode, while also revamping plenty of mechanics that have existed in the mode for a long time. The end goal is to make Clubs more enjoyable, immersive, and captivating for players.
The Clubs mode hasn't received so many changes in a long time, and especially not as impacting as the ones EA implemented this year. While some indicated the mode is following in the steps of Ultimate Team, which doesn't please many fans, the overall changes have been met with satisfaction by the EA FC community.
So, without further ado, let's find out all the new features coming to Clubs in FC 26.
Archetypes
Archetypes are replacing the skill tree as the new progression system in Clubs. Players will be able to choose one of 13 archetypes when creating their character, all of which are inspired by legends of the game and have unique characteristics. The remaining archetypes can be unlocked by using FC Points, Club coins, and archetype unlock items.
To evolve their archetype, players need to play Club games to earn AXP. Their archetype will level up once they collect enough AXP to do so. Leveling up allows players to upgrade their abilities and attributes. Doing so will make it easier to unlock PlayStyles, specializations, and signature perks.
At launch, each archetype has 50levels, but their max level will increase throughout the season. Changes, upgrades, and fixes will be made to archetypes during the season, allowing users to constantly tweak their archetypes to fit their playing style as the year progresses.
Each player will have their unique archetype card, which showcases their position, rating, and PlayStyles. Every card looks unique, and they can be customized with many different backgrounds, which are earnable in the Season Pass rewards, objective rewards, and of course, the Clubs store.
Tied to the archetype system are consumables. Consumables make it easier and faster for players to upgrade their archetypes, as they boost players' AXP earnings. Unlocks are also part of consumables, and as mentioned above, they allow players to unlock different archetypes.
Every archetype has a set of unique PlayStyles that are directly connected with that archetype's style of play. This set of standard PlayStyles will be unlocked and equipped automatically, with PlayStyles upgrading to a PlayStyle+ as players level up their archetype.
Progressing through the archetype levels will also unlock customizable PlayStyle slots, with each PlayStyle having a specific set of requirements to be unlocked. To unlock them, fans will need to upgrade their attributes to meet certain requirements.
Specialization is also a new feature, and just like PlayStyles, Specializations are unlocked by upgrading certain requirements. Unlocking a specialization will earn fans a signature perk, which is an on-pitch ability that provides a temporary boost, and each archetype has two unique signature perks.
Live Events
New live events have been added to Clubs in FC 26, with all of them having a max of four games in a single-elimination knockout tournament format. The new live events will have different entry requirements, unique gameplay, and rules. It gives players the chance to experience Clubs differently. All of the live events will be played in the brand-new Rush stadium, created specifically for Clubs.
A vastly improved Clubs Lobby
The Club's lobby was revamped, now having a cleaner layout and being much easier to navigate. Players can check how their archetype fits in certain positions and roles. Real-time updates for in-progress matches have also been added.
But that's not all, as more set-piece options were added. Now, users have more control over their set-piece routine and can choose different ways to attack or defend set pieces.
For the first time ever, players can be members of a maximum of three clubs at a time. Players can switch between clubs seamlessly, making the process of joining or switching clubs much easier.
AI Facilities
AI facilities are the place where players can improve the attributes of their AI teammates. Players can use the club budget to upgrade their AI facilities, which will give bigger boosts to the AI teammates.
The AI players will only receive attribute upgrades, and every facility will be responsible for a positional group of players. So, fans will have to choose which positions to prioritize.
Clubs Gameplay
As the FC 26 gameplay deep dive had revealed, Clubs will be played in the competitive gameplay preset, something that can't be changed. This gameplay type is faster and more responsive, making it perfect for a competitive environment.
Fatigue has tuned in Clubs, with players no longer experiencing loss of long-term fatigue. AI players will have a reduction in acceleration and sprint speed when tired. The relentless and relentless+ PlayStyles were tweaked, and the recovery rate for short fatigue has been increased.
New quick chat options were added to the game, and players can use them to encourage, celebrate, compliment, or give instructions to teammates by using the D-pad.
That's everything you need to know about the changes coming to Clubs in FC 26.
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