Tag: EA Sports

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ESports Gaming News MADDEN

Madden NFL 25: What You Need To Know

Madden NFL 25
Madden NFL 25 was released 13 August 2024

Madden NFL 25 continues the tradition of bringing competitive play to fans. This years installment brings improved controls, new game modes, and greater realism.

The most anticipated updates to Madden NFL 25 target its gameplay mechanics. “True Step” has been completed revamped, providing more realistic movement. Specifically, each step taken is calculated based on position, speed, and momentum; which offers increased control and increased fluidity.

Additionally, the improvements to the in-game AI mimics real NFL strategies. Basically, by adapting to your playstyle, the new AI offers greater competition.

Another major feature is “Connected Franchise Mode” that offers more customization options and control. Players can now manage everything from salary caps to player trades. You can even take on roles as owner, manager, or player. This allows you to experience the full range of the NFL experience.

Ultimate Team also saw significant changes. It is now more engaging with new challenges, card sets, and better rewards. Additionally, the integration of next gen consoles brings faster load times and sharper graphics.

What Are People Saying?

IGN currently gives Madden NFL 25 a rating of 6/10. Although, fans have offered both praise and criticism.

Positive Reactions
  • Realistic Movement: Precision movements makes the game feel authentic.
  • Franchise Mode: Depth and customization has been a fan favorite. In-depth strategy and long-term gameplay has become a standout feature.
  • Graphics: The next-gen graphics have received considerable praise; most praise comes from console players.
  • Ultimate Team: The updates to Ultimate Team make the game feel fresh. Weekly content keeps fans coming back.
Criticisms
  • Gameplay Balance: Fans say the game can feel off. Specifically,  the defensive AI feels overpowered.
  • Microtransactions: Fans have criticized microtransactions in Ultimate Team. They feel the only way to progress is to purchase in-game packs.
  • Bugs & Crashes: Like many sports games at launch, Madden NFL 25 is experiencing its own issues. Players are reporting bugs in Franchise Mode, AI inconsistency, and in-game crashes.
Final Take

Madden 25 offers a solid experience, particularly to those who appreciate the realism updates. However, complaints around in-game mechanics and purchases remain. Die-hard fans will likely enjoy the game; although casual players might be more frustrated.

Before You Go

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EA FC ESports FIFA Gaming News

EA FC25: A Honest Review

EA FC25
EA FC25 was released 27 September 2024

EA Sports FC25 has been out for a few weeks now, so what are people saying? One word. Lacking

It is no surprise that EA has stuck to the formula that people have come to expect. For example, In FC25, the Ultimate Team saw major updates that pleased many, yet the game saw little improvement elsewhere. Despite complaints of corporate greed and server issues, fans remain loyal to their beloved franchise.

The Ultimate Team Hole

Ultimate Team has been a fan-favorite mode. It is no surprise that EA would prioritize refining it; which includes introducing female players and streamlining play. EA was listening and finally gave the fans what they were asking for. Except, it came at a cost.

A stand-out, highly advertised feature for FC25 is Rush Mode. A five-v-five version of the game. It offers fast-paced gameplay with an emphasis on teamwork. It carries the thrill and challenges of a real five-v-five match. Which many enjoy. However, game imbalances, crashes, and a lack of features has disappointed others. With EA’s focus on Ultimate Team, many fans feel like Rush Mode was, well, rushed. Leaving it feeling empty.

This pattern is common with other game mechanics as well. Clubs and Career Mode has been criticized as being nothing more than a reward system for Ultimate Team. This is the dilemma EA created for themselves. Fans of FC25 just aren’t interested in other modes, unless they are associated with Ultimate Team.

In Ranked Play, EA introduced stricter requirements for rewards, and won’t let players reset their rank; which continues to frustrate casual players. Another totted feature was the Highlighter replay system. This allows players to create highlight reals with visual effects, although the system is full of bugs and crashes frequently. Certainly less focus on Ultimate Team could have likely prevented these issues.

Final Thoughts

EA FC25 continues the theme of favoriting Ultimate Team. The rest of the game lacks any real innovation, and feels forgotten. While the familiarity and progression system keeps fans coming back, the lack of changes, and improvements continues to frustrate others. One thing is certain, as long as fans continue to purchase the game, EA will continue to deliver the same experience.

Before You Go

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You can find our previous article on EA FC25 here.

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ESports Gaming News NHL

NHL25: Much Left To Be Desired

EA NHL25
NHL25 was released on 4 October 2024

EA Sports promised a lot with NHL25. It is one of the most immersive NHL games yet. Building on its Frostbite engine, the game offers heightened realism, improved skating mechanics, and enhanced AI. If you are a casual player or die-hard hockey fan, NHL25 offers plenty to enjoy with new modes and a focus on teamwork.

A standout feature of NHL25 is the “Dynamic Deeks” system; allowing you to perform more fluid puck control and customization. Additionally, the revamped “Be A Pro” mode offers a deeper storyline. Pairing these two features together makes NHL25 feel more immersive than previous titles.

Key Features
  • Improved Frostbite Engine: Improved lighting, realistic ice wear, and better crowd animations.
  • Enhanced AI: Improved team tactics and smarter counter-play.
  • Customized Play Styles: Personalize your play style. Better puck mechanics.
  • Updated World of CHEL: More rewards and better progression.
Where NHL25 Falls Short

While EA has delivered on some promises, NHL25 still leaves fans disappointed. While “Be A Pro” mode saw some changes, it is still the subject of many grievances. Many fans wanted a more immersive experience, yet feel that the mode remains largely unchanged. Additionally, despite improvements to AI, there are reports of inconsistencies such as goalies making unrealistic saves.

Lastly – microtransactions – every gamers favorite mechanic. Since introducing microtransactions to NHL Ultimate Team in 2010, they have continued to frustrate players; suggesting that it is a pay-to-win system that overshadows skill based progression.

A Solid Effort With Room To Improve

NHL25 delivers a solid hockey experience with its improved mechanics and stunning graphics, although it leaves room for improvement. Similarly, critics and fans echo this sentiment- IGN praised the game’s realism but criticized its lack of innovation. In my opinion, NHL25 is an upgrade from previous titles, but lacks the major overhaul fans were expecting.

Before You Go

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EA FC ESports FIFA Gaming News

EA FC25: Everything You Need To Know

EA FC25
EA FC25 was released on 27 September 2024

The highly anticipated release of EA FC25 is here. The new release brings together the latest graphics with the most immersive experience yet. This is the second installment of the EA FC franchise after parting ways with the traditional FIFA branding.

The newest release EA FC25 has delivered refreshing changes while retaining the core gameplay mechanics that fans have come to love. The game feels fresh but with a familiar face. FC25 boasts state-of-the-art graphics, improved physics, and a renewed focus on team play. Prepare to experience the pitch like never before.

A key feature that has fans excited is the integration of HyperMotionV technology, providing ultra-realistic animations captured from real matches.  Players will notice enhancements to dribbling – making it feel smoother – dynamic shooting mechanics, and improved ball physics.

The career mode also received a much-needed facelift. You are now in control of your own career – with greater influence on transfers, gameplay tactics, and player development.

EA also addressed some issues from previous titles regarding online play. FC25 has improved matchmaking capabilities, providing shorter wait times and more customization options.

Key Features coming to EA FC25
  • HyperMotionV Technology: Provides state-of-the-art lifelike animations from real match data.
  • Revamped Career Mode: You now have more detailed control over team management and player progression.
  • Enhanced Physics: Players and ball movement are more realistic, leading to more accurate and dynamic interactions.
  • Improved Matchmaking: Enhancements to matchmaking keeps you on the field longer. There are also more customization options.

Overall, EA FC25 feels like a familiar yet refreshing addition to the franchise. The game is currently well received by fans and critics alike. Gaming outlets such as IGN and GamesRadar have praised FC25 for its gameplay mechanics and its visual enhancements, respectively.

Whether you are a casual player or a die-hard fan, EA FC25 offers something for everyone.

To stay up to date with the latest news regarding EA FC25, you can find the official site here.

GamerSaloon is dedicated to providing you with news and updates surrounding the gaming industry. Check back regularly to find more content created just for you.

 

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Uncategorized

Video Game Industry Consolidation Shaking Things Up

Video Game Industry Consolidation

The video game industry got a huge boost during stay-at-home orders in the first year plus of the pandemic. But as things opened back up and people started resuming activities outside of their home, video game sales suffered, seemingly resulting in a run of major company acquisitions within the space.

If you believe the reports, there is more to come.

Take-Two Kicks Off Round Of Acquisitions

Take-Two Interactive Software started the run of consolidation with its acquisition of mobile games publisher Zynga. Take Two announced the $12.7 billion deal on Jan. 10 and completed the transaction on May 23.

Microsoft was next with its pending acquisition of publisher Activision Blizzard. Microsoft announced that deal, worth $68.7 billion, on Jan. 18.

On Jan. 31, Sony announced a deal to acquire game studio Bungie for $3.6 billion.

On Feb. 24, mobile gaming firm Playtika disclosed that it is evaluating its options, including a possible sale. Same with Electronic Arts and  Ubisoft, as both have been looking for buyers, according to reports.

More Acquisitions Coming

“Consolidation is definitely going to continue,” according to analyst Mike Hickey.

After Zynga, Take-Two will continue to look into more acquisitions, according to Chief Executive Strauss Zelnick.

“Our story has historically been one of organic growth with very specific strategic acquisitions along the way,” Zelnick said. Those deals include “the acquisitions that got us into the mobile business in the first place and acquisitions of smaller and medium-size studios that bring to us great teams and great intellectual property.”

What’s next for EA?

Electronics Arts is looking to make a move. EA has reportedly sought out large media companies, such as Comcast, as potential merger partners.

If that does not work out EA could decide to buy. They made arguably the most successful acquisition in the recent history of video games, purchasing Respawn in 2017 for $315 million, which led to the creation of the company’s most valuable game in Apex Legends.

The sale of EA could really shake things up. More to come.

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FIFA

EA Sports FC Coming in 2023

EA Sports FC

FIFA 23 will release this year, but it will be EA Sports FC after that.

EA has announced that the FIFA series will change its name after FIFA 23, ending a partnership that has been in place since 1993.

EA Sports announced the change in a blog post, stating that there will be more information coming about the first EA Sports FC in July 2023. “This new independent platform will bring fresh opportunity – to innovate, create and evolve,” reads a statement from EA Sports representative, Cam Weber.

Despite dropping the name license, EA Sports FC will keep FIFA’s league, club and player licenses, including 19,000+ players, 700+ teams, 100+ stadiums and 30 leagues. FIFA itself has not released a statement at time of writing.

EA Sports vice president David Jackson released an important statement regarding the change: “In terms of things that they’ll miss, players will notice only two things: The name and a World Cup piece of content every four years. Outside of that, very little will change about the things they know, and love about the current FIFA products.”

EA had previously said it was exploring the idea of renaming the series, and trademarked the EA Sports FC name, but this is the first time it’s been officially confirmed.

Previous reports suggested that FIFA wanted to charge EA $1 billion every four years to use the name. A name mired in controversy for many years, including major corruption scandals.

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