On January 8, fans of the EA Sports College Football video game series are in for a treat as the company is set to release an “official update” on the upcoming football simulator. This reveal coincides with the College Football Playoff National Championship between Michigan and Washington. While the details of the update are still under wraps, there’s a lot of anticipation surrounding the potential content, including the possibility of an official release date.
The upcoming game, expected to launch in the summer of 2024, marks the return of the popular series after a decade-long hiatus. The last installment, NCAA Football 14, was released back in 2013. Since then, changes in college football, notably the introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules, have set the stage for a much-awaited comeback.
EA Sports originally partnered with OneTeam Partners to broker deals with players for their NIL in the game. However, The Brandr Group filed a lawsuit last summer to prevent these deals, which was eventually settled in November, paving the way for the game’s development.
The excitement is not just about the return of a beloved franchise but also about the expected enhancements and new features. The game is built on the Madden engine, but fans should expect unique tweaks to gameplay. The adjustments aim to capture the distinct atmosphere and traditions of college football, making it more than just a reskin of the Madden game.
Several key gameplay elements like robust playbooks, team-specific strategies, and a focus on college football’s pageantry are expected to feature prominently. Previous versions of the NCAA Football franchise were known for their introduction of innovative plays like RPOs (Run-Pass Options) in the 2013 game, hinting at the creative potential of the upcoming release.
EA Sports has been tight-lipped about specific game modes, but the Dynasty and Road to Glory modes are expected to continue. There’s also the possibility of adding more modes through downloadable content updates, potentially including legends from college football’s past in an “Ultimate Team” mode.
Another exciting aspect is the return of virtual magazine covers in Dynasty Mode, a fan-favorite feature. The attention to detail extends to unique helmet stickers and a library of throwback uniforms, adding to the game’s authenticity.
Ahead of the planned announcement, EA Sports has engaged schools to contribute assets, such as photos of stadiums, and encouraged fan interaction on social media with the #easportscollegefootball hashtag. This collaborative approach suggests a game that’s not only about the on-field action but also about community and fan involvement.
In terms of cover athletes, there’s speculation about potential candidates, ranging from current college football stars to coaches.
With the NIL structure now in place, the game could feature a current college football player or a college coach on the cover. Names like Deion Sanders, Shedeur Sanders, Caleb Williams, Bo Nix, Michael Penix, JJ McCarthy, Drake Maye, and Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels have been mentioned as possible faces for the rebooted franchise.
The January 8 update could reveal more than just a release date; it might offer insights into gameplay, modes, and the cover athlete. Whatever the announcement includes, it’s a momentous occasion for sports gamers and college football fans who have longed for the return of a cherished video game series.
Speaking of football, Lebron James is expected to start streaming Madden NFL soon. It’s unclear if he’ll play EA Sports College Football as well. The future NBA Hall of Famer was the No. 1-ranked football prospect in Ohio before quitting the game to focus on basketball during his sophomore years.
