Nostalgia often brings an unbeaten sense of joy, making us long for the past when life appeared simpler. When EA Sports announced the revival of its college football video game franchise, many fans drew on cherished memories, eagerly anticipating this release despite the complexities of modern gaming.
After an 11-year hiatus, EA Sports has successfully captured the essence of its old college football series with College Football 25, enhanced by modern updates.
Over the past three days, I devoted around 20 hours to the game, feeling a youthful enthusiasm rekindled by the familiar yet refined gameplay. EA Sports invested significant time, even delaying its release by a year to perfect it, and the effort shows.
Having distanced myself from gaming since NCAA Football’s departure, I, like many others, returned specifically for this game, purchasing an Xbox Series S just for it. The game, available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, has surpassed my expectations despite EA Sports’ recent controversies over microtransactions and gameplay flaws in other titles.
College Football 25 impresses with fantastic graphics and a realistic representation of each school, maintaining the beloved feel of the original game. Though the NCAA previously halted the series due to player image rights issues, this new version incorporates modern elements like NIL and transfers without losing its charm.
The game caters to both hardcore and casual players, offering deep customization or simpler, more accessible gameplay. In an era where college football faces uncertainty, this game stands as a tribute to the sport.
Gameplay-wise, the smooth and fast-paced mechanics are a significant upgrade, distinctly different from Madden 24. Running the ball is particularly enjoyable, with seamless jukes and spins rewarding well-executed plays. Passing, with its new “revamped” system, may require an adjustment, but options to switch back to classic modes are available for those who prefer it. One minor frustration is the frequency of receivers dropping balls under contact, but it adds to the game’s realism.
Kicking, the game’s toughest aspect, demands precision and timing, reflecting the unpredictable nature of college kickers. Tackling also requires accuracy, with the CPU proving more skilled and strategic than before. Special teams present unique challenges, enhancing the authentic college football experience.
The playbooks are incredibly detailed, offering diverse play options, including numerous read-option and RPO plays. Custom playbooks will be a playground for dedicated gamers.
Dynasty mode remains my favorite, offering depth without being overwhelming. You can choose between handling recruiting yourself or letting the CPU manage it. Various factors, like coach archetypes and assistant coaches, influence gameplay, adding layers of strategy.
In Dynasty mode, recruiting is realistic, making it difficult for lower-tier teams to land top prospects. The transfer portal adds another dimension, allowing further team customization. The streamline of recruiting actions week to week makes management more efficient, while custom conference options provide additional flexibility.
Road to Glory (RTG) mode has evolved, simplifying the initial setup but expanding the player’s journey. Starting as a recruit and managing practice, social activities, and game performance impacts your career path. The mode’s choose-your-own-adventure style keeps it engaging.
Additional features like Road to the CFP and Ultimate Team, though less explored due to server limitations, promise further fun for players. Team Builder details remain scarce, but excitement around its possibilities is high.
In conclusion, EA Sports College Football 25 meets and exceeds nostalgic expectations, offering a carefully crafted game that celebrates the essence of college football. While no game is perfect, this release hits the mark, potentially setting a high bar for future updates. Now, finding more time to play it is the only challenge remaining.