EA Sports has officially announced the release dates for two of its highly anticipated video games, Madden NFL 26 and EA Sports College Football 26. This announcement comes as a significant moment for sports gaming enthusiasts, marking a shift away from last-generation consoles, as neither title will be available for Xbox One or PlayStation 4.
EA Sports College Football 26 is set to launch on July 10, 2025, with early access available starting July 7 for those who purchase the Deluxe Edition. Meanwhile, Madden NFL 26 will follow suit, arriving on August 14, 2025, also offering three days of early access for Deluxe Edition buyers. This strategic release schedule aims to capitalize on the growing excitement surrounding both franchises.
The announcement was made on April 24, 2025, coinciding with the start of the 2025 NFL Draft, and was accompanied by a combined trailer showcasing the journey of players from high school through to the NFL. This trailer has generated buzz among fans, particularly for its focus on the Road to Glory mode, which may include high school gameplay—a feature that was notably absent in the previous edition.
In a bid to enhance the gaming experience, EA Sports has introduced the MVP Bundle, which allows players to purchase both College Football 26 and Madden NFL 26 together. This bundle is priced at $149.99, or $134.99 for EA Play members, and includes a range of exclusive items and benefits. Pre-ordering the bundle before April 29, 2025, secures a Travis Hunter 99 OVR player item for both games, an enticing offer for dedicated fans.
Gamers who opt for the Deluxe Edition of Madden NFL 26 will receive a host of perks, including:
- Three days of early access
- 4600 Madden Points
- Season 1 Elite Player Item
- Cover Athlete Elite Player Item
- Superstar Legendary XP Boost
- Franchise Coach ability points
- Player card exclusive item
Similarly, the Deluxe Edition for EA Sports College Football 26 offers:
- Three days of early access
- 4600 College Football Points
- Top Prospect Ultimate Team Pack
- All Hands Ultimate Team Pack
- Dynasty Coach Points
- Road to Glory Skill Points
The return of the College Football series last year was a resounding success, with EA Sports College Football 25 becoming the best-selling video game in the United States for 2024, surpassing even popular franchises like Call of Duty and Madden. This success has set high expectations for the upcoming releases, as fans are eager to see if EA Sports can replicate or even surpass last year's performance.
Moreover, the excitement surrounding these games is not just about sales; it also reflects a broader cultural phenomenon. The revival of the College Football series has reignited interest in college sports gaming, and with the established Madden Championship Series, it’s likely that College Football 26 will soon carve out its own niche in the esports landscape.
As EA Sports continues to develop and refine its offerings, the community is buzzing with anticipation. The inclusion of high school gameplay in Road to Glory mode, if confirmed, could significantly enhance player engagement and storytelling within the game, allowing users to experience the full arc of a football player's journey.
For those looking to get involved early, the MVP Bundle offers an appealing option to secure both titles and enjoy exclusive in-game content. With the growing popularity of sports games, EA Sports is positioning itself to dominate the market once again. The success of EA Sports College Football 25 has set a high bar, and fans are eager to see what innovations and features will be introduced in the upcoming editions.
As the release dates approach, gamers are encouraged to keep an eye on EA Sports’ announcements for further details on gameplay features and additional content that may enhance their gaming experience. With the combination of nostalgia for college football and the thrill of NFL gameplay, both Madden NFL 26 and EA Sports College Football 26 are poised to be significant titles in the gaming calendar.
Ultimately, the upcoming releases represent not just a continuation of beloved franchises, but also a chance for EA Sports to further engage with its community and expand the horizons of sports gaming.
