EA Sports FC 24 and FC 25 are the most recent editions in EA’s football simulation series, carrying on the tradition of the FIFA franchise under a new moniker. For PS4 users, deciding between FC24 and FC25 might be difficult, especially given the technological limitations of last-generation platforms. This blog discusses the important differences and similarities between FC24 and FC25 for PS4, concentrating on gameplay, features, visuals, and overall value to help you determine which game is ideal for you.
Gameplay: Realism vs. Refinement
FC24 Gameplay
FC24 on PlayStation 4 marked a transition toward a more realistic but occasionally unpleasant gameplay. The action feels packed, with little room for inventive plays, particularly in the midfield. The AI is aggressive, frequently crowding players and restricting passing lanes, making matches feel too defensive and arcade-like. Dribbling and skill moves are less successful against higher-level AI (World Class or Legendary), and scoring long-range power shots is tough. Defending in FC24 is frequently criticized for being erratic, with outcomes mainly depending on goalie performance rather than player ability.
FC25 Gameplay
FC25 improves the gameplay and addresses some of FC24’s faults. The introduction of FC IQ, a new tactical and positional system, provides players greater choice over their team’s style, allowing for various formations without a dominant “meta” like FC24’s 4-3-2-1. The speed is substantially slower, leaning more toward realism, making build-up play more methodical and satisfying. Defenders move more regularly, with greater marking and coverage, while the AI is more adept at pressing and intercepting, forcing players to change their playstyle. The new Cranium technology improves player animations, making motions feel more fluid and natural. However, some players note that dribbling and passing may still be clumsy, and the PS4 version lacks the full HyperMotion V technology seen on next-generation systems, limiting animation smoothness.
Verdict: FC25 offers a more refined and tactical gaming experience, with improvements in defending and tactical versatility; yet, the slower tempo and occasional clunkiness may not appeal to those who favor FC24’s quicker, but imperfect, arcade-style action.
Features and Modes
FC24 Features
FC24 for PS4 has three main modes: Career Mode, Ultimate Team, and Seasons. The Career Mode is strong, but lacks the dynamic sequences (e.g., Ballon d’Or celebrations) found on next-generation consoles owing to the lack of HyperMotion V. Ultimate Team introduced female players and Evolutions, which are now available across all platforms. However, the mode feels like a slog, with progression primarily based on menus rather than actual battles. Bugs, laggy menus, and a lack of tradeable packs were frequent complaints, making FC24’s Ultimate Team less appealing.
FC25 Features
FC25 expands on FC24’s basis with significant enhancements. The new Rush mode, a 5v5 format, stands out for its fast-paced matches that seamlessly combine with Career Mode and Ultimate Team. Rush is especially effective in Career Mode, where players may put their youth prospects to the test in a dynamic environment. Career Mode also includes the option to play as symbols in Player Career, which adds a fun, if goofy, aspect. The coaching tree and training plans have been updated, and manual training sessions are no longer necessary to maximize player sharpness. Ultimate Team feels less menu-driven, with growth related more to playing matches, although some players still find the grind too much. The PS4 version includes most features but lacks next-generation specific graphics upgrades and several Dynamic Moments.
Verdict: FC25’s new Rush mode and enhanced Career Mode elements provide for a more interesting experience. While both games suffer from the PS4’s technological constraints, FC25 seems like a step forward in terms of substance and diversity.
Graphics and Performance
FC24 Graphics and Performance
FC24 for PS4 runs on the Frostbite engine, but lacks the enhanced lighting, crowd movements, and graphic fidelity of the PS5 version. Players and uniforms have a glossy, plastic-like appearance, while menus appear less polished than in FIFA 23. Performance is good but not optimal, with some players experiencing excessive console noise even on sufficient hardware. The lack of HyperMotion V results in less realistic animations and a dated overall look.
FC25 Graphics and Performance
FC25 for PS4 uses the same Frostbite engine but with some graphic modifications. Player faces are more detailed and movements are smoother owing to Cranium technology, but the difference between PS4 and PS5 remains obvious. The menus are identical to FC24’s, with a dull grey-and-black color scheme that lacks the brightness of previous FIFA editions. Performance has improved, with fewer reports of slowdowns or crashes, although some players continue to encounter menu latency and occasional gameplay problems.
Verdict: FC25 provides some graphics enhancements and improved performance stability, but the PS4’s hardware restrictions prevent it from matching the next-generation experience. Both games are comparable, with FC25 having a tiny advantage in player models and animations.
Community Sentiment and Value
Community Feedback
The community is split on both titles. FC24 has received widespread criticism for its lackluster gameplay, with many gamers preferring previous games like as FIFA 23 or even FIFA 17 for greater balance and pleasure. FC25 has received mixed reviews: some applaud its tactical depth and Rush mode, while others believe it is too similar to FC24 to justify the full price. On X, users say FC25 seems like a slower, more polished FC24, but they still complain about menu slowness and gameplay glitches.
Price and Value
FC24 is now substantially cheaper, with discounts ranging from 60-75%, giving it an affordable choice for PS4 users who are still playing earlier titles such as FIFA 21. FC25, which will be released on September 27, 2024, will cost more (about $70-$100), however reductions are likely during major sales such as Black Friday. FC25’s additional features may justify the expense for players focused on Career Mode or Rush, but FC24 remains a good option for those looking for value.
Verdict: FC24 is a better deal for budget-conscious players, thanks to its reduced pricing and comparable core experience. FC25 is worth considering if you want the most recent features and are ready to pay a premium.
Which Should You Choose?
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Choose FC24 if:
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You’re on a tight budget and can acquire it at a significant discount.
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Despite its shortcomings, you like a rapid, arcade-style gameplay.
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You’re satisfied with the main modes, such as Ultimate Team and Career Mode, and don’t require any more features.
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Choose FC25 if:
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You want a more tactical, slower-paced gameplay experience that includes FC IQ and superior defense.
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You’re enthused about Rush mode and the new Career Mode features.
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You are willing to invest in the most recent title and can wait for prospective reductions.
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My View
FC25 on PS4 is an incremental upgrade over FC24, with enhanced gameplay, new modes such as Rush, and more tactical complexity. However, due to PS4 hardware limits, both games miss out on next-generation features such as HyperMotion V, and FC24’s reduced pricing makes it a more appealing alternative for casual gamers. If you’re upgrading from an earlier FIFA title, FC25’s new features make it the superior pick, but FC24 is still a viable option for those trying to save money. Finally, your selection is influenced by your budget, gameplay tastes, and if you value the most recent improvements in EA’s football franchise.
