Today, EA has released a first look at the gameplay of Madden NFL 26, as well as the official reveal trailer for the game.
Right now, EA shared a few of the upcoming features that players can see a bit of in the reveal trailer. To start with, Madden NFL 26 is aiming to be as immersive and similar to the real world as possible with QB DNA and Coach DNA.
These features bring the personalities of football stars on the field more than ever. With over 500 new quarterback animations, 50 new player traits, and new AI coach data, there’s more realism than ever in the series.
Coach DNA acts as an overhaul to the Coach Suggestions features that had Coach Speak. Additionally, a new Realtime Coaching AI will take over CPU teams, making decisions and adjustments to counter the player. They’ll also look more realistic than ever, rocking their signature styles.
A few other features include the following:
- A Wear and Tear feature that affects how players perform, along with new depth chart positions
- Weather conditions have been overhauled, introducing new visuals and new effects that target movement, visibility, stamina, and even ball control.
- Improved fundamental stats for players — for example, some players run better straight while some excel at running while weaving.
- Custom defense zones
- Play Sheets for even more plays in the playbook.
A revamped Franchise Mode will give Madden NFL 26 players a new way to experience the game. There will be new challenges to keep things fresh after EA heard community feedback.
When making a new team, there are hundreds of team heads to pick from, along with new gear and styles. There are also Coach Abilities that can be added to game plans. They also create opportunities for in-game scenarios to trigger.
There’s also the road to becoming a Superstar. These narratives in Career Chapters will help players become football stars, and the system is more immersive than ever. Players will have to manage their relationships, please their coaches, and perform well to rise to the top.
Ultimate Team is also changing in Madden NFL 26, adding more events and programs, particularly for solo players. Solo rewards have been reworked from the ground up, including Solo Champions. There will also be Leaderboard Campaigns for Solo players.
Players can check out the Madden NFL 26 gameplay themselves in the official reveal trailer below. They can also read through the notes from EA here.
Madden NFL 26 will be released on August 14, 2025, on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2. The game is already available for pre-order, and there are several rewards for doing so.
Pre-ordering the standard edition of the game will include the MUT Cover Athlete Elite Player Item, Franchise Coach Ability Points, and a Super Star Legendary XP Boost.
Players can get the Deluxe Edition Pre-Order before July 24 to receive the following:
- 3 days of Early Access
- 4,600 MUT Points
- Early Access to Solo Challenges
- Season One Elite Player Item (players can choose one from a select list)
- MUT Cover Athlete Elite Player Item
- Franchise Coach Ability Points
- Super Star Legendary XP Boost
- Player Car Exclusive Item
There’s also the MVP bundle that players can pre-order before August 14, which includes:
- Everything in the Madden NFL 26 Deluxe Edition
- College Football 26 Deluxe Edition
- EA Sports College Football 26 3 days of Early Access
- 4,600 CUT Points
- Bundle Exclusive CUT Item
- Early Access to Solo Challenges
- CUT Top Prospect Pack (players can choose one from a select list)
- CUT All Hands Pack (Pick one of two items)
- Dynasty Coach Points
- Road to Glory Skill Points
EA also shared some pictures, which fans can view below:
Considering the success of Madden NFL 25, there’s a lot of anticipation around Madden NFL 26 — there may even be esports partnerships after the game’s released.
