As EA FC 26 approaches, fans are excitedly discussing which edition they should pre-order for the best experience and value. Whether you're a casual player or a dedicated EA FC 26 Ultimate Team enthusiast, deciding between the Standard Edition and the Ultimate Edition can be challenging. In this guide, NealGuides2 helps you make an informed choice.
Pricing and Discounts
For the PlayStation version, the Ultimate Edition costs $89.99, while the Standard Edition is priced at $69.99. EA Play subscribers can enjoy a 10% discount on either edition, making the Ultimate Edition even more appealing for its added perks.
Both editions also come with dual entitlement, meaning you can play on both PS4 and PS5 without purchasing separate versions—a great feature for gamers transitioning to next-gen consoles.
Ultimate Edition: Why It's Worth Considering
While the Standard Edition is perfect for casual players, the Ultimate Edition offers several benefits that make its $20 price difference worthwhile. Here's what you get:
1. Pre-order Bonuses
Pre-ordering before August 26 unlocks 1 of 15 untradeable ICONs for Football Ultimate Team at launch. Though the chance of getting top-tier R9 or Ibrahimovic is very small, these bonuses could still give your team a solid start.
2. FC 25 Benefits
You'll receive exclusive perks from FC 25, including:
- Ultimate Team 1 of 5 Player Picks 93+ OVR ICON Player Item (untradable)
- Ultimate Team Player Evolution
3. Early Access
The Ultimate Edition lets you start playing on September 19—seven days ahead of the official release date on September 26. Early access is perfect for players who want a head start in building their Ultimate Team, giving you the chance to secure valuable FIFA coins early on.
4. FC Points
The Ultimate Edition includes 6,000 FC Points (approximately $40 value), distributed over two months. While it's unclear if these points are given all at once or weekly, they're a significant advantage for Ultimate Team fans.
5. Season 1 Premium Pass
This pass, valued at around $10, provides additional in-game rewards and progression opportunities during the first season.
6. Additional Evolution Slot
With an extra evolution slot, you can evolve two players simultaneously, adding strategic depth to your gameplay.
7. Standard Edition Content
The Ultimate Edition includes all Clubs and Career content from the Standard Edition, ensuring no features are left behind.
Important Notes
- Nintendo Switch players won't receive the FC 25 pre-order bonuses.
- To qualify for the initial FC Points distribution, you must complete necessary steps by June 15, 2026. Late redemption could mean missing out on this benefit.
Standard vs. Ultimate: Which Is Right for You?
If you're a casual player who primarily enjoys Manager or Career mode and doesn't mind waiting until September 26 to play, the Standard Edition should suffice. However, if you're an Ultimate Team enthusiast looking to maximize your experience, the Ultimate Edition offers far better value for just $20 more.
Between early access, FC Points, evolution features, and additional bonuses, the Ultimate Edition is a no-brainer for those deeply invested in online gameplay. Pre-order wisely and enjoy everything FC 26 has to offer!
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