This week, we conducted a detailed review of several popular in-game cards, focusing on SBC releases, the Evolutions system, and the performance of cards in the latest pack drops. From hands-on gameplay experience, it’s clear that each card brings a distinct playstyle, and players should choose based on their own team needs. One key trend worth noting: the importance of PlayStyles is growing rapidly in the current meta. The era of judging cards purely by stats is over—PlayStyle combos and positional fit have become the new gold standard.
Table of Contents
SBC Cards Overview
- Henry SBC exceeded expectations. While his 4-star skill moves and weak foot were initially seen as subpar, in practice he feels extremely smooth on the ball, with unique animations that make dribbling a breeze. He performs at a solid Tier 1 level, especially in attack, and the Technical PlayStyle+ triggers frequently and effectively in-game.
- Beckenbauer, however, felt somewhat underwhelming. His base 84 pace makes him struggle in midfield, especially during high-tempo matches. His stamina is also a concern—by the 70th minute, he usually needs to be subbed off, which is disappointing for a Legendary card. That said, his long passing and interception IQ are respectable and may still work in certain tactical setups.
- Szczęsny SBC stands out for its excellent value for FUT coins. With a 196cm frame, he performs particularly well against low-driven and long-range shots. When paired with the Footwork PlayStyle+, he becomes a great budget option. That said, there are occasional reaction delays in high-tier matches, possibly due to hidden attributes.
Pack Mechanics & Odds
Last week’s changes to pack mechanics sparked heated discussion. Statistically, the 84×1 pick (Pick 1 of 3) shows a significantly higher top-tier pull rate (~18%) compared to the 82+ pick 2 of 5, which sits around 7%. This difference in odds is crucial when deciding where to spend resources.
Some players have suggested that EA may be implementing dynamic pack odds, subtly adjusting chances during specific timeframes. With the season nearing its end, smart resource planning is more important than ever. Players are advised to monitor community data closely and aim to open packs during higher-yield windows, while also saving enough assets for the potential upcoming TOTS event.
Evolutions System Breakdown
The “Golden Years” Evolution has caused some controversy due to its complex structure. It features multiple stages, some of which are irreversible, and the overall stat curve between levels isn’t always smooth. Many users report hitting a stat wall around the 88–90 rating phase. So, plan your upgrade route carefully.
On the other hand, the “Gladiator” Evolution is more straightforward, providing solid boosts to finishing and defending stats with a relatively low entry barrier. In testing, Gladiator-evolved players saw a 15–20% increase in defensive positioning and tackle success—great for defensive-minded roles. But be cautious: some PlayStyles, like Relentless, may be overwritten during evolution.
Weekly Featured Cards
- Buffon is worth highlighting this week. As one of the few keepers with the Long Throw PlayStyle+, he plays a unique role in certain formations. Testing shows a 12% higher save rate on long shots (25 yards+) compared to regular goalkeepers.
- Eibiri offers well-rounded offensive and defensive stats in the CAM role. Though he lacks elite shooting PlayStyles, his Engine PlayStyle+ ensures he maintains a high performance level throughout 90 minutes. Especially effective under high press tactics, he averages 2.3 interceptions per match—outstanding for an attacking midfielder.
- The “Black Panther” card has an interesting twist: the lower-rated version actually feels more usable. It comes with Trivela and Quick Step, which noticeably boost first touches in the box. In testing, the lower-rated version consistently had better close control—likely due to hidden attribute differences.
Underperformers
Some cards clearly didn’t live up to expectations:
- Hamann’s PlayStyle selection is a big letdown. Without Finesse Shot, his in-box finishing suffers—down by about 25% in efficiency compared to similar cards.
- Cards like Rooney in their early-evolution form also lack critical silver PlayStyles, especially First Touch, which limits their ability to shake off defenders under pressure.
- Zambrotta’s lower-tier version is held back by both position and underwhelming PlayStyles. His Intercept Only trait doesn’t mesh well with the current meta, which favors short passing and build-up play.
Interestingly, community testing shows that some of these cards perform better in niche formations (like 5-3-2), possibly due to how the game engine assigns positional bonuses.
This week’s players shows clear polarization. Usage rates for top-tier cards vary widely—Buffon and Eibiri boast 23% and 18% pick rates respectively, while controversial picks like Hamann fall below 5%. Players should prioritize cards that serve a clear tactical purpose. For those with limited coins, starting with budget-friendly options like the lower-rated Black Panther may be the smarter move.
Looking ahead, internal leaks suggest upcoming card releases may introduce new PlayStyle combinations and positional stat weight adjustments. These are worth keeping an eye on. In the meantime, stay updated with official patch notes to adapt your squad strategy accordingly.