FC 26 PLAYSTYLES

FC 26 PlayStyles are in-game characteristics that provide players with unique skills and play styles that match their real-life counterparts.

PlayStyles


PlayStyles allow you to build your squad based on your knowledge of the players and how they actually play on the pitch.


2.5 Acrobatic
Physical
PS
Performs volleys with improved accuracy and has access to acrobatic volley animations.
PS+
Performs volleys with significant accuracy and has access to unique acrobatic volley animations.
Players
Players renowned for acrobatic passes, clearances, and shots.
Positions
Useful for both defenders and attackers, but with different benefits: Defenders gain acrobatic clearance ability, while attackers improve their volley finishing.
Keys
Unique acrobatic kick animations
Increased accuracy for acrobatic kicks
4.0 Aerial Fortress
NEW Physical
PS
Performs higher jumps and has physical defensive presence before and during aerial duels.
PS+
Performs even higher jumps and has greatly improved physical defensive presence before and during aerial duels.
Players
Defensive players who dominate aerial battles in their own half.
Positions
Best suited for center-backs or defensive midfielders tasked with clearing aerial threats and winning defensive headers.
Keys
Increased jumping reach on defensive headers
Stronger physical presence in defensive aerial duels
Unique defensive aerial animations
5.0 Anticipate
Defending
PS
Improved chances of standing tackle success and grants the ability to stop the ball directly at their feet when performing a standing tackle.
PS+
Significantly improved chances of standing tackle success and grants the ability to stop the ball directly at their feet when performing a standing tackle.
Players
Tackling specialists who excel in clean stand tackles while rarely conceding fouls.
Positions
It enables clean standing tackles that stop the ball dead, perfect for launching quick counters or shifting play. Defenders with strong defensive stats benefit most, as it amplifies their ability to win possession cleanly.
Keys
New Stop Ball Stand Tackles that aim to keep the ball close to the tackler
Increased tackle accuracy
Increased the max distance the ball can travel following a tackle
3.5 Block
Defending
PS
Increased reach when performing blocks and improved ability to make a successful block.
PS+
Even greater reach when performing blocks and improved ability to make a successful block.
Players
Specialists in acrobatic blocks and last-ditch clearances.
Positions
It enhances 1v1 defending by increasing a player’s reach when making crucial blocks. Defenders with strong defensive attributes benefit most from this advantage.
Keys
Increased user controlled player blocking distance
Increased distance for close manually requested blocks
Reduced time to contact for manually requested blocks
3.5 Bruiser
Defending
PS
Greater strength when performing physical tackles.
PS+
Even greater strength when performing physical tackles.
Players
Physical specialists who dominate challenges using strength and body positioning to win possession.
Positions
It enhances physical dominance, giving players an edge in defensive duels. Those with high strength and aggression benefit most from this advantage
Keys
Increased physicality when performing physical challenges
2.5 Chip Shot
Scoring
PS
Performs chip shots faster and with greater accuracy.
PS+
Performs chip shots more quickly with exceptional accuracy.
Players
Specialists in delicate chip shots, known for lofting the ball over advancing goalkeepers.
Positions
Attackers benefit most from the Chip Shot PlayStyle, as they frequently find themselves in scoring positions. Players with superior finishing and composure attributes execute these delicate chips with greater precision
Keys
Increased accuracy for Chip Shots
Reduced time to contact with ball for Chip Shots
More driven arc trajectories allowing for higher powered Chip Shots to remain on target
2.0 Cross Claimer
Goalkeeper
PS
Comes out to claim crosses with increased pace, increased awareness of the ball trajectory, and further punch reach with increased power.
PS+
Comes out to claim crosses with greater pace, greater awareness of the ball trajectory, increased punch reach with greater power.
Players
Sweeper-keepers and commanding goalkeepers who excel at intercepting crosses.
Positions
Exclusive to goalkeepers, it boosts both cross-claiming frequency and set-piece reflexes. Ideal for keepers who command their penalty area.
Keys
Increased ball control when intercepting
Ability to perform slide interceptions
2.5 Dead Ball
Scoring
PS
Set pieces are delivered with increased speed, curve, and accuracy. Ball trajectory preview line is longer.
PS+
Set pieces are delivered with exceptional speed, curve, and accuracy. Ball trajectory preview line is at maximum length.
Players
Players who are exceptional set-piece takers in real life
Positions
Attacking players are best suited, especially those with high free kick stats. Often found in shooting areas, their good free kicks become great with this PlayStyle.
2.0 Deflector
Goalkeeper
PS
Performs deflection saves into safer areas with increased ball speed control.
PS+
Performs deflection saves into safer areas or towards free teammates with greater ball speed control.
Players
Goalkeepers known for their ability to handle powerful and direct shots.
Positions
Those with it are more effective at handling powerful shots, reducing the threat of dangerous rebounds.
4.0 Enforcer
NEW Physical
PS
Performs dribble Shoulder Challenges and Shielding with increased effectiveness.
PS+
Performs dribble Shoulder Challenges and Shielding with greatly increased effectiveness.
Players
Powerful attackers who use physicality to retain possession and hold off defenders.
Positions
Ideal for strikers or wingers who like to shield the ball while dribbling under pressure.
Keys
Increased shoulder challenge effectiveness
Enhanced shielding mechanics
Helps resist physical pressure during dribbles
2.0 Far Reach
Goalkeeper
PS
Performs diving saves with improved reach and has access to extended reach animations.
PS+
Performs diving saves with greater reach and has access to extended reach animations.
Players
Specialist goalkeepers renowned for their exceptional long-shot stopping ability.
Positions
Exclusive to goalkeepers, it enhances long-shot saves while boosting reach and aerial ability.
2.0 Far Throw
Goalkeeper
PS
Able to perform throws with increased speed and distance.
PS+
Able to perform throws with greater speed and distance.
Players
Goalkeepers with exceptional distribution range, specializing in long pinpoint throws to launch counterattacks.
Positions
Upgrades keeper passing range and accuracy, enabling effective ball distribution to wide areas and attacking outlets.
5.0 Finess Shot
Scoring
PS
Performs finesse shots faster with additional curve and improved accuracy.
PS+
Performs finesse shots significantly faster with maximum curve and exceptional accuracy.
Players
Specialists in precision finishing, utilizing finesse shots to place the ball with clinical accuracy.
Positions
Attackers benefit most from the Finesse Shot PlayStyle, as they frequently find themselves in scoring positions. Players with high finishing and curve attributes execute these precise placed shots with greater accuracy.
Keys
Increased accuracy for Finesse Shots
Reduced time to contact with ball for Finesse Shots
Higher powered Finesse Shots are less likely to go over the goal
4.0 First Touch
Ball Control
PS
Has reduced error when trapping the ball and is able to transition to dribbling faster with greater control.
PS+
Has minimal error when trapping the ball and is able to transition to dribbling much faster with greater control.
Players
Specialists in close control, excelling at maintaining possession under pressure in congested areas.
Positions
Midfielders and Attackers benefit most from the First Touch PlayStyle, as they frequently receive fast passes in advanced positions. Players with high Ball Control and Dribbling stats will execute flawless first touches to maintain attacking momentum.
Keys
Increase ability to control when receiving the ball
Unique ball trapping animations
2.0 Footwork
Goalkeeper
PS
Performs foot saves faster and with extended reach.
PS+
Performs foot saves more quickly with even greater reach.
Players
Goalkeepers who are recognized for making saves with their feet.
Positions
Goalkeepers with this PlayStyle will make saves with their feet more frequently and receive a boost to their reactions in one-on-one situations.
4.0 Game Changer
NEW Shooting
PS
Fancy and Trivela shots are performed with improved accuracy.
PS+
Fancy and Trivela shots are performed with greatly improved accuracy.
Players
Forwards who score unconventional goals with flair and technique rather than raw power.
Positions
Best suited for attackers and wingers capable of finishing from tight angles or with creativity.
Keys
Trivela and Flair shots improved
Better shot placement
Unique finishing animations
4.5 Incisive Pass
Passing
PS
Through Passes are more accurate, Swerve Passes are delivered with more curve, and Precision Passes travel faster to the destination.
PS+
Through Passes are far more accurate, Swerve Passes are delivered with maximum curve, and Precision Passes travel at top speed to the destination.
Players
Specialists in crisp, driven passes that maintain pace and accuracy over distance.
Positions
It benefits all positions, perfect for possession-based systems. It enhances quick ball distribution and sharp counter-attacks with pinpoint accuracy across the entire pitch.
Keys
Reduced time to contact with ball for Through Passes
Increased ball backspin to be easier to control for the receiver and avoid over hitting the pass location
Increase to accuracy of Through Passes
Pass trajectories are more likely to avoid opposition players
4.5 Intercept
Defending
PS
Increased reach and improved chances of retaining possession of the ball when performing interceptions.
PS+
Even greater reach and improved chances of retaining possession of the ball when performing interceptions.
Players
Defensive specialists with exceptional anticipation and ball-recovery skills, consistently intercepting passes and maintaining possession.
Positions
It enhances defenders’ ability to both cut out passes and maintain possession. Players with high Defensive Awareness and Stand Tackle stats gain the most impact, consistently disrupting dangerous opposition attacks.
4.0 Inventive
NEW Passing
PS
Fancy and Trivela passes are performed with improved accuracy.
PS+
Fancy and Trivela passes are performed with greatly improved accuracy.
Players
Creative playmakers who rely on flair and outside-of-the-foot passes to unlock defenses.
Positions
Perfect for CAMs, wide midfielders, and full-backs who cross with the outside of the foot.
Keys
Combines Trivela and Flair into one
Greater curve and accuracy
Consistent outside foot animations
4.0 Jockey
Defending
PS
Increased max speed of Sprint Jockey and improved transition speed from jockey to sprint.
PS+
Increased max speed of Sprint Jockey and greatly improves transition speed from jockey to sprint.
Players
Defensive specialists with exceptional 1v1 dueling ability, combining positioning, timing, and physicality to neutralize attackers.
Positions
It enhances 1v1 defending by increasing a player’s jockey sprint speed. Defenders with high Defensive Awareness and Agility gain the most significant advantage when isolating attackers.
Keys
Sprint Jockey max speed
Increase transition speed from Sprint Jockey to Sprint
4.0 Long Ball Pass
Passing
PS
Lob and Lofted Through Passes are more accurate, travel faster and are more difficult to intercept.
PS+
Lob and Lofted Through Passes are even more accurate, travel faster than ever, and are far more difficult to intercept.
Players
Players known for making long lobbed passes.
Positions
Midfielders are best suited as they’re typically responsible for delivering passes to the striker to create optimal scoring opportunities. Those with higher passing stats will execute long ball passes with greater accuracy.
Keys
Reduced time to contact with ball for Lob Passes
Increased ball speed for Lob Passes
Lob Pass height can result in a lower and faster trajectory if the path is clear
Long Ball Pass+: Increased driven trajectory for Lobbed Through Passes
3.0 Long Throw
Physical
PS
Performs throw-ins with increased power to cover a greater distance.
PS+
Performs throw-ins with more power to cover maximum distance.
Players
Players known for their ability to throw the ball farther than average
Positions
It suits any player, but it’s preferable for shorter players to take the throws, allowing taller teammates to position themselves in the box. It’s a valuable attacking option to have in your arsenal and can also be used to advance play when you’re under defensive pressure.
5.0 Low Driven Shot
Scoring
PS
Enhances a player’s ability to execute low driven shots with increased accuracy, faster ball travel, and quicker shot execution.
PS+
Enhances a player’s ability to perform low driven shots with significantly enhanced accuracy, even faster ball travel, and quicker shot execution.
Players
Players who excel at powerful, precise low-driven shots that consistently find the bottom corners, making them a constant goal threat through technique and accuracy.
Positions
It is ideal for forwards, especially strikers and attacking midfielders. These positions often find themselves in goal-scoring situations where quick, precise shots can be crucial for breaking through defenses and converting chances in and around the penalty area.
4.5 Pinged Pass
Passing
PS
Passes travel faster along the ground without impacting the trapping difficulty of the receiver.
PS+
Passes travel much faster along the ground without impacting the trapping difficulty of the receiver.
Players
Players who deliver defense-splitting passes for teammates to run onto.
Positions
Midfielders and wingers are best suited as they’re typically responsible for delivering passes to the striker to create optimal scoring chances. Players with higher passing stats will execute pinged passes with greater precision.
Keys
Increased speed for non-first time Ground Passes
Increased pass quality allowing pass receiver to have increased ball trapping control
Increased accuracy on Driven Passes
Reduced time to contact with ball for driven Ground Passes
3.5 Power Shot
Scoring
PS
Performs finesse shots faster with additional curve and improved accuracy.
PS+
Performs finesse shots significantly faster with maximum curve and exceptional accuracy.
Players
Players known for taking powerful shots from outside the box in real life.
Positions
Attacking players are best suited as they frequently find themselves in shooting positions. Those with higher shooting stats will execute power shots with greater precision.
Keys
Reduced time to contact with ball for Power Shots
Increased ball travel speed for Power Shots
Lower elevation for high powered Power Shots
4.0 Precision Header
NEW Shooting
PS
Performs headers with increased accuracy and power.
PS+
Performs headers with greatly increased accuracy and power.
Players
Offensive players who excel at placing accurate headers into the goal rather than relying purely on power.
Positions
Ideal for strikers and attacking midfielders positioned to score from crosses and set pieces.
Keys
Improved header targeting
More consistent header animations
Replaces Power Header with accuracy-focused improvements
3.0 Press Proven
Ball Control
PS
Keeps close control of the ball while dribbling at jog speed and can shield the ball more effectively from stronger opponents.
PS+
Keeps exceptionally close control of the ball while dribbling at jog speed. Can shield the ball much more effectively from stronger opponents.
Players
Players known for performing well under pressure and maintaining possession against opponents.
Positions
All players can benefit from it as pressure on the ball is constant during gameplay. Those with higher composure stats will execute their first touch with greater precision.
Keys
Increase to Strength while shielding
Increased accuracy for off balance ball touches
Increased shield effectiveness with the ball
Faster shield dribbling animations
Increased controlled touches when dribbling
4.5 Quick Step
Physical
PS
Accelerates faster during Explosive Sprint.
PS+
Accelerates significantly faster during Explosive Sprint.
Players
Players known for their quick bursts of speed both on and off the ball.
Positions
It suits strikers and wingers. The additional acceleration provides a subtle edge in attacks, often making the difference between reaching a scoring opportunity or being caught by a defender. Faster, more agile players benefit most, as it enhances their already lightning-quick pace.
Keys
Increased Explosive Sprint speed
Reduced Explosive Sprint activation angle requirement
Increased Explosive Sprint duration
Reduced Explosive Sprint cooldown
Increases the transition time from Explosive Sprint speed to regular sprint speed
4.0 Rapid
Ball Control
PS
Reaches a higher sprint speed while dribbling and has reduced chance of an error when sprinting or performing knock-ons.
PS+
Reaches even higher sprint speed while dribbling and has greatly reduced chance of an error when sprinting or performing knock-ons.
Players
Players known for dribbling at speed and skillfully knocking the ball past opponents to run onto.
Positions
Wingers and full-backs are best suited as these players will often run down the line to deliver the final ball or take on defenders in 1v1 situations. Those with higher dribbling stats will find it easier to beat opponents using this PlayStyle.
Keys
Able to retain top speed for longer while sprint dribbling
Increased accuracy on knock ons and sprint dribbling
Reduced time to contact the ball when sprint dribbling
4.0 Relentless
Physical
PS
Reduces fatigue loss during play and increases fatigue recovery during half time.
PS+
Greatly reduces the long term fatigue effects on attributes, reaction time, and defensive awareness. Reduces fatigue loss during play and significantly increases fatigue recovery during half time.
Players
Players known for covering more ground than others in their position.
Positions
It is best suited for box-to-box midfielders, who cover both ends of the pitch and benefit from reduced fatigue at halftime. While all players can gain from this, those who run the most will see the greatest advantage.
Keys
Increased halftime stamina replenishment
Reduced Secondary Contain cooldown
Increased Secondary Contain duration
Reduced Partial Team Press cooldown
Increased Partial Team Press duration
2.0 Rush Out
Goalkeeper
PS
Rush speed is increased and has an improved reaction speed to shots in rushing situations.
PS+
Rush speed is greatly increased and has a faster reaction speed to shots in rushing situations.
Players
Goalkeepers known for saving shots with their feet.
Positions
Those with it will be more aggressive in 1v1 situations and gain a speed boost when rushing out.
3.5 Slide Tackle
Defending
PS
Grants the ability to stop the ball directly at their feet when performing a slide tackle.
PS+
Greatly improved slide tackle coverage. Also grants the ability to stop the ball directly at their feet when performing a slide tackle.
Players
Players known for frequently performing and successfully completing slide tackles.
Positions
It enables defenders to stop the ball dead with a slide tackle and quickly launch an attack, providing a significant advantage when starting a counter-attack. Players with higher slide tackle and defending stats benefit greatly from this PlayStyle.
Keys
New Stop Ball Slide Tackles that aim to keep the ball close to the tackler
Contextually use hard slide animations when using regular slide tackle for improved responsiveness
4.5 Technical
Ball Control
PS
Reaches a higher speed when performing Controlled Sprint and performs wide turns while dribbling with more precision.
PS+
Reaches even higher speed when performing Controlled Sprint and performs wide turns while dribbling with greater precision
Players
Players known for regularly beating opponents using pure dribbling rather than skill moves.
Positions
Players who aren’t the best at skill moves are well suited as it enhances controlled sprinting and allows for more precise wide turns. Those with higher dribbling stats will beat opponents more efficiently using this PlayStyle.
Keys
Reduced time to contact the ball on Jog dribbling turns
Increased max Controlled Sprint speed R1/RB
Increased awareness in their immediate surroundings
Increased accuracy on Controlled Sprint R1/RB
Reduced time to contact the ball when Controlled Sprinting R1/RB
3.5 Tiki Taka
Passing
PS
Executes difficult first-time Ground Passes with high accuracy, using backheels when contextually appropriate. Short distance Ground Passes are highly accurate.
PS+
Executes difficult first-time Ground Passes with even greater accuracy, using backheels when contextually appropriate. Short distance Ground Passes are exceptionally accurate.
Players
Players known for delivering accurate first-time passes.
Positions
Midfielders and attackers are best suited as they rely on quick passing combinations to create optimal scoring opportunities. Players with higher passing stats will execute these passes with greater precision.
Keys
Increased accuracy for short Ground Passes
Contextual backheel animations if beneficial
Reduced time to contact with ball for Ground Passes
Increased pass quality allowing pass receiver to have increased ball trapping control
3.0 Trickster
Ball Control
PS
Grants the ability to perform unique flick Skill Moves.
PS+
Grants the ability to perform more unique ground and flick Skill Moves. Is significantly more agile when strafe dribbling.
Players
Players known for frequently beating opponents using skill moves.
Positions
Any type of attacking player is well suited as it gives wingers and strikers an offensive edge, enabling them to perform game-changing skill moves. Players with higher dribbling stats will execute these exclusive moves more effectively.
Keys
Unique ball rolls from standing position with L2+R2/LT+RT
Unique flicks with R3+LS in any direction
Unique flicks with L2+R3+LS, LT+R3+LS in any direction
Increase animation speed of Strafe Dribbling L1+LS,LB+LS
Unique Flair animation with L2/LT + Fake Shot while standing
4.0 Whipped Pass
Passing
PS
All crosses are highly accurate, travel faster and with more curve.
PS+
All crosses are highly accurate, travel faster and with more curve. Performs driven crosses with exceptional power.
Players
Players known for delivering high-speed, whipped crosses into the box.
Positions
Wingers and full-backs are best suited as they’re often responsible for making runs down the flank and delivering dangerous crosses to strikers. Players with higher passing stats will execute these crosses with greater precision.
Keys
Reduced time to contact with ball for crosses
Increased ball speed for crosses
Increased accuracy for crosses
Increased curve for crosses
Crosses have a more driven trajectory
Reduced cross height



FC 26 PlayStyles

What are PlayStyles?


FC 26 PlayStyles are in-game attributes assigned to select players that influence their behavior and performance across all modes, including Ultimate Team and Career Mode. These PlayStyles grant players unique abilities and play styles that mirror their real-life counterparts, enhancing authenticity and variety on the pitch.

Powered by real-world Opta data, PlayStyles boost athletes’ in-game capabilities, delivering greater realism by highlighting signature skills beyond standard ratings. Each PlayStyle has a tangible impact on gameplay, making players stand out with distinct strengths and tendencies.

PlayStyles+ take these traits to an elite level, representing iconic abilities such as Haaland’s Power Shot or Sam Kerr’s Finesse Shot. These enhanced skills are clearly displayed on Player Items, making it easy to understand each player’s impact on the game.

Please note: Goalkeeper PlayStyle and PlayStyle+ enhancements are exclusive to Be a Goalkeeper modes, including Player Career and Clubs.

FC 26 PlayStyles

Ultimate Team


If a player has a PlayStyle+, an icon appears on the front of their item, making it easy to identify their standout abilities and what sets them apart on the pitch. Throughout the year, new player versions with a variety of PlayStyles will be released during special campaigns. Additionally, players can further customize their squads using Evolutions, gradually adding different PlayStyles over time.

How to Check PlayerStyles in UT
  1. Select a player item from your squad or the transfer market and press R3 to see the respective Bio;
  2. Press R1/R3 three times to go to the [PlayerStyles] tab;
  3. The traits will be listed at the right of the player item.
Aerial Fortress
Enforcer
Gamechanger
Inventive
Precision Header
Aerial
Flair
Power Header
Trivela
Frequently Asked Questions
FC 26 PlayStyles are characteristics that are used to give players unique behaviors in-game.
FC 26 PlayStyles give players distinctive skills and play styles in-game, closely mirroring the abilities and tendencies of their real-life counterparts.
To check the playstyles in-game, follow these steps:
  1. Select a player item from your squad or the transfer market and press R3 to see the respective Bio;
  2. Press R1/R3 three times to go to the [PlayStyles] tab;
  3. The traits will be listed at the right of the player item.
Yes, throughout the season, new special versions of certain players may feature additional PlayStyles or entirely new ones that replace those found on their regular cards.
PlayStyles are special attributes assigned to certain players that influence their in-game behavior. Players can have multiple PlayStyles or none at all, but these attributes are important to consider when choosing which players to add to your squad
Players can individually toggle on or off the display of PlayStyles+ icons, Footedness icons, and Skill Moves Rating. All of these features are enabled by default.

The PlayStyles+ icons show which enhanced PlayStyles the controlled player has, and they glow when activated during gameplay.

Additionally, the Player Name Bar dynamically changes depending on the mode: in Ultimate Team, it shows the player item design; in Clubs, it shows the archetype; and in player-specific modes like Player Career or Clubs, it also displays the match rating.
In FC 26, PlayStyles have been rebalanced to ensure they enhance rather than define a player’s performance. Previously, the gap between top-tier attributes and PlayStyle effects was too large, leading to high-rated players underperforming without specific PlayStyles.

Now, the attribute system has been adjusted so players with strong base stats perform reliably in core gameplay mechanics, even without PlayStyles. At the same time, PlayStyles still provide unique, situational boosts but are no longer essential to feel impactful.

Several PlayStyles were added or reworked, including Enforcer, Aerial Fortress, Precision Header, Gamechanger, and Inventive, while overlapping or redundant ones like Power Header, Aerial, Trivela, and Flair were removed or merged to make the system more streamlined and meaningful.
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