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EA Sports FC 27 AI Defending Cut, New Corner Kicks Demand Skill

NicoGG 2 min read

EA Sports FC 27 reduces AI defending and overhauls corner kicks to demand manual skill. We look at the gameplay shifts in the upcoming soccer title.

EA Sports FC 27 AI Defending Cut, New Corner Kicks Demand Skill
GAMES

EA Sports FC 27 is shifting away from automated shortcuts to demand more manual precision from players. This change matters because it raises the skill ceiling for anyone who relies on the game's previous automated systems. The developer is explicitly moving away from mimicking the sport when those mechanics do not add value to the player experience.

EA Sports FC 27 gameplay screenshot showing corner kick setup
EA Sports FC 27 gameplay screenshot showing corner kick setup

Manual precision replaces automation in set pieces and defense

The core of this shift involves a complete overhaul of how set pieces and defending work in the game. Players will now control specific animations and timing windows that were previously handled by the system. This forces a more deliberate approach to both attacking and defending phases of play.

The new corner kick system uses a two-part skill-based mechanic that replaces the old lob system. Players first select the target location and power for the corner, then the perspective shifts to the penalty box. In the box, the attacker takes direct control to time their header, requiring precise input to connect with the ball. Crossing mechanics also changed to target open space rather than specific players. This allows attackers to time their runs toward the incoming cross instead of waiting for a direct pass.

Defending has seen a massive reduction in artificial intelligence assistance to increase the gap between manual and automatic play. Defenders now stand further away from their opponents and require manual input to challenge for the ball. Attacking runs feature more fluid animations and new pass-and-move options to prevent routine gameplay patterns. The team is also lowering the impact of PlayStyles, making base player stats significantly more important than specific trait bonuses.

We looked at the last EA Sports FC 27 update, several of the same balance and stability themes came up. The studio is developing custom gameplay live events tools to provide fresh experiences throughout the game cycle. These changes aim to keep the match dynamics unpredictable and engaging for competitive players.

Source: VideoGameChronicles

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