As part of E3, EA Sports released some information about FIFA 19. There have also been some comments about the gameplay already. Here you will find everything about the innovations that affect the pure gameplay.
The release of FIFA 19 is on 28.09.2018 for PS4, Xbox One, PC, and the Switch. The pre-order editions are already known, along with some information about the game, such as the Champions League license.
With the gameplay changes to FIFA 19, EA aims to enhance players’ control over the game, both tactically and technically. Below, we provide an overview of all gameplay features that EA aims to implement for FIFA 19.
Finishing Timings: The New Shot System
How do I use the finishing timing? To use the new shooting feature, simply double-tap the shoot button during the finishing attempt. The second button press determines the success or failure of the shot.
When does the ball come “precise and powerful”? To receive the shot boost, the second button press must occur exactly when the player touches the ball with their foot or head. The less precise it is, the higher the likelihood that the ball will go into the clouds.
What kind of visual feedback do I get? If the trainer is activated, a bar appears above the player during finishing timing, where two white lines move toward each other. If the second press occurs when both lines are in the green bar area, you will receive the optimal shot boost. If the trainer is not active, the display occurs on the triangle above the player. You can also rely on the player’s shot animation.
When can I use finishing timing? The innovation is applicable to every type of shot. Long shots, headers, or tricky finishes – everything is possible.
What happens now with the “Low-Driven Shot”? The execution is very similar to the driven low shot: First press to charge, second to refine. The execution is now done via shooting and the two front shoulder buttons (L1+R1 or LB+RB).
Can I still shoot normally? Yes, you do not have to use the new system. Especially for rebounds or when close to the goal, it is probably not advisable to take the risk. The system is based on the “risk/reward” mechanic.
Here you can read our guide to Timed Finishing in FIFA 19.
The new shot system is presented in this video:
Active Touch System: Improved Ball Control and Reception
There seem to be changes in ball control every year, and FIFA 19 is no different: it aims to provide great game flow, creativity, and more unpredictability. Innovations are urgently needed here, as a major criticism from eSports players in FIFA 18 is that many games end in “ping-pong”.
New features include concealed ball receptions, flick-up volleys, or skill-specific animations such as Neymar’s trap.
The latter is executed by holding a shoulder button: If you aim before receiving the ball with the stick in one direction and change this just before the ball contact to the other, your player will change their line of sight at the last second. This could lead to interesting “mind games” especially in online play.
The flick-up volleys are executed using the right analog stick. This should be easy to perform and can result in spectacular goals.
You can see this new gameplay feature in the video here:
Dynamic Tactics: More Individuality as a Coach
This system is completely overhauled. Players should now be able to have significantly more game variations up their sleeves.
Specifically, it means: More customization options before the game and more D-pad options for dynamic changes during the match.
The new tactics combine formations, mentalities, and offensive as well as defensive playing styles. Therefore, FIFA 19 could offer a lot for tactic enthusiasts.
Pep Guardiola introduces the dynamic tactics here:
50/50 Battles: Intense Struggles for Second Balls
In the 50/50 battles, the speed of response from the user and the players’ attributes determine who can win loose balls. Thanks to increased player intelligence and better spatial awareness, every duel for ball possession is important.
What should be noticeable in the game is that there will be significantly more duels for balls in open space. Currently, it often happens that the players do not pay attention to balls that are a few meters away but not explicitly assigned to them. This could change in FIFA 19.
Real Player Motion Technology: New Player Animations
As every year, EA promises that players will be recognized more by their typical movements. FIFA 19 is also expected to have new and improved animations. These include:
- Animations for tactical shielding movements
- Reactions after collisions
- Physical positioning battles.
