Guide to Playing EA FC 26 Early: Unlock Times for Standard and Ultimate Editions

This year’s highly anticipated football title, EA FC 26, is set to revolutionize the gaming experience with substantial enhancements to core features and modes, adapting them for the contemporary, service-oriented landscape. With decades of football gaming tradition behind it, the game aims to connect players in exciting new ways.

Players can expect an array of thrilling advancements, including two unique control systems, a choice between Competitive and Authentic match types, and the introduction of five innovative PlayStyle+ abilities. Furthermore, the updates to the Manager Career, along with significant revisions to Rivals and Champs, promise an engaging experience for both newcomers and seasoned fans alike.

If you’re eager to dive into the game, you may be wondering when you can get your hands on it. This comprehensive guide outlines the essential release dates.

Release Dates for EA FC 26

As tradition dictates with previous EA FC releases, EA FC 26 features two distinct release dates: an Early Access period followed by the official launch a week later. Early Access is granted to players who either pre-order or purchase the Ultimate Edition of the game.

Unlock Times for EA FC 26 Ultimate Edition

PlayStation and Xbox: Friday, September 19 at midnight local time.
PC: Thursday, September 18 at 5 AM PT, 8 AM ET, 1 PM UK.

Unlock Times for EA FC 26 Standard Edition

PlayStation and Xbox: Friday, September 26 at midnight local time.
PC: Thursday, September 25 at 5 AM PT, 8 AM ET, 1 PM UK.

EA FC 26 Reveal Image — Image credit: EA Sports

Interestingly, you don’t have to opt for the Ultimate Edition to gain early access.EA Play, EA’s subscription service, also permits early gameplay. Through the ten-hour EA Play trial, available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, players can experience EA FC 26 before making a full purchase. The trial allows you to accumulate your playtime over the week, ensuring you don’t exceed the limit.

For those who want unlimited access from the moment the Ultimate Edition goes live, the EA Play Pro subscription provides this option. This subscription includes the Ultimate Edition of EA FC 26 as part of the package, meaning players can enjoy full benefits while their subscription remains active. However, it’s essential to note that EA Play Pro is currently only available on PC.

The basic version of EA Play is priced at $6 per month, while the Pro version is available for $17 per month. For casual gamers who only play for a month or two, the Pro subscription may represent a more cost-effective alternative to purchasing the full game outright.

To enhance player engagement during Early Access, EA is introducing various bonuses, including daily Knockout Tournaments and a special finale exclusive to Early Access players.

Additionally, players can look forward to:

Team of the Week 1 and 2
Evolutions
World Tour and Squad Foundations releases
Flashback SBC
Showdown SBCs
Opportunities to earn Season Points

Ultimate Edition owners will receive 2, 000 points upon their first login, and another 2, 000 points one month later, followed by an additional 2, 000 points the following month. Moreover, they will also have access to two EVO slots, allowing simultaneous upgrades for two Evolution players as soon as the game launches.

Stay tuned for further updates on EA FC 26, including ratings of the top Premier League and WSL players, once the game has officially launched.

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