EA Sports FC 26 is set to launch on September 26, 2025, across all major platforms. The game recently offered players a glimpse into its offerings through an open beta on the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, while also revealing its new class of "Icon" cards, honoring soccer legends.

The open beta for EA Sports FC 26 on the Nintendo Switch 2 commenced on August 8, providing the first opportunity for players to experience the game on Nintendo's new console. Footage released shortly after the beta's launch confirmed that the game operates at 30 frames per second (fps) on the Switch 2, a notable difference from the 60 fps standard seen on other versions of the game.

This frame rate decision has sparked discussion among fans. While higher frame rates generally offer a more fluid and responsive experience, crucial for genres like fighting games and competitive shooters, developers sometimes opt for 30 fps to prioritize graphical fidelity and higher resolutions. Despite some fan disappointment regarding the frame rate, a significant improvement for the Switch 2 version is its feature parity with the PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S versions, offering all the current-generation gameplay features.

This full-feature inclusion marks a substantial departure from nearly a decade of previous EA Sports FC and FIFA titles on Nintendo consoles. Historically, these games were often stripped-back, last-generation versions, offering minimal technical changes year-on-year, primarily differentiating themselves only by updated player rosters. The original Nintendo Switch, along with PS4 and Xbox One, will continue to receive these stripped-back versions of the game.

Beyond the gameplay experience, EA Sports FC 26 is also expanding its roster of "Icon" cards, a series tradition that virtually immortalizes some of the greatest soccer players of all time with powerful in-game items. A dozen new Icons will be inducted into this virtual hall of fame for EA FC 26.

Among these new legends is U.S. striker Alex Morgan, who concluded her professional career in 2024. Her illustrious career, spanning from 2008 to 2024, saw her achieve WPS and NWSL titles, a UEFA Women's Champions League title with Lyon (2016-17), and contribute to two World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal with the U.S. national team, where she scored 123 goals in 224 matches. Her Icon card will be rated 91 OVR.

Only two athletes surpass Morgan's rating: EA FC 26 cover star Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Sweden and Spanish midfielder Andrés Iniesta, both of whom boast 92 OVR Icon cards.

Another prominent addition is legendary German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, renowned for his aggressive style and commanding presence. Known as "Der Titan," Kahn played 429 matches for Bayern Munich (1994-2008) and 86 for the German national team, retiring internationally in 2006. He is widely considered one of the best goalkeepers ever, notably becoming the only goalkeeper in World Cup history to win the Golden Ball (tournament MVP) for his pivotal role in Germany's run to the 2002 finals, despite playing with an injury. His Icon card will also be 91 OVR.

The full list of new Icons introduced in EA Sports FC 26 includes: Zlatan Ibrahimovic -- Sweden (92 OVR), Andrés Iniesta -- Spain (92 OVR), Alex Morgan -- United States (91 OVR), Oliver Kahn -- Germany (91 OVR), Toni Kroos -- Germany (90 OVR), Caroline Seger -- Sweden (90 OVR), Francesco Totti -- Italy (89 OVR), Marcelo -- Brazil (89 OVR), Giorgio Chiellini -- Italy (89 OVR), Stephanie Jones -- Germany (89 OVR), Cha Bum-kun -- South Korea (88 OVR), and Sissi -- Brazil (88 OVR).

With its global release slated for September 26, EA Sports FC 26 promises significant advancements for Nintendo Switch 2 players, alongside an exciting new roster of soccer legends immortalized as Icons, enriching the gameplay experience for fans worldwide.