EA Sports FC 25 has rolled out a major update dubbed First Frost, introducing a slew of changes as we head into the festive season. This update doesn’t just add new content—it’s also a direct response to issues that players have been vocal about.
The holiday period is a familiar time for substantial updates from EA, who in the past have used eye-catching red and blue characters to showcase the changes in their EA Sports FC 24 holiday update. Unfortunately, unless there’s a last-minute surprise, these entertaining robo-ballers are taking a break this year.
In the pitch notes for the First Frost update, EA mentions that the goal is to tackle community feedback across various game aspects while injecting new strategies and customization possibilities. Two notable newcomers are FC IQ player roles, along with a shift in some existing roles. The “Classic 10” CAM represents a traditional attacking midfielder—the heart of offensive maneuvers, while the “Wide Half” CDM takes on defensive duties to protect the flanks while aiding in build-up play.
Other fresh features, launching with server updates soon after First Frost, include new Ultimate Team player items, the Max Tactics and Winter Match house rules for Ultimate Team friendlies, and two new celebrations inspired by Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dusan Vlahović. Plus, players can enjoy a freshly themed festive main menu.
The update doesn’t stop there. Many modes and gameplay elements have seen tweaks based on player input. For instance, the duration of Rush matches in Ultimate Team has been trimmed to five minutes, down from seven. On the gameplay front, enhancements to defensive logic help counteract attacks right from the kickoff. AI attackers will now recognize offsides more swiftly, and changes to skill moves for players with two-star skills make them less demanding, aiming to enhance your match experience.
EA has also signaled they’re exploring updates in areas like scoring on corners, first-time power shots, first-time lobbed through passes, and jog dribbles. Additionally, expect tweaks and new introductions in clubs and career mode, such as double XP events and youth player development changes—worth checking out if these modes are your jam.
If you’re returning to FC 25 to sample this update, don’t miss out on our guides. They’re packed with strategies, from top tactics codes and formations to the best young talents to recruit in career mode.