10 Best Football Games 2026 in the United States

EA SPORTS FC 24 on Nintendo Switch brings a substantial amount of content to football game enthusiasts. With over 19,000 licensed players, 700 teams, and 30 leagues, the authenticity and licensing are top-notch. The game modes are varied, offering Rivals, Squad Battles, Champions, Objectives, Friendlies, Clubs, and VOLTA FOOTBALL, catering to both competitive and casual players.

Additionally, the ability to personalize your own Pro and play with friends adds a layer of customization and social interaction to the experience. The enhanced Frostbite Engine promises improved graphics and visuals, which is notable for the Switch platform. However, it’s important to mention that some features necessitate an internet connection and an online subscription, which might be a drawback for some users.

Another aspect to consider is the AI and difficulty levels, which can vary, potentially requiring players to adjust settings for an optimal gaming experience. EA SPORTS FC 24 offers a comprehensive and authentic football experience, making it suitable for fans looking for a detailed and engaging game on Nintendo Switch.

FIFA 17 on PlayStation 4 brings a fresh experience to football gaming with its use of the Frostbite engine, which significantly improves the visuals and makes the action feel more realistic. The graphics showcase lifelike players and smooth animations, adding to the immersion on the pitch. One of the standout features is 'The Journey' mode, where you follow the story of Alex Hunter, a young Premier League star, giving the game a more personal and narrative-driven touch that many fans enjoy.

Gameplay mechanics are refined, offering better player movement and smarter interactions, which help create a more authentic football experience. The game includes various modes, from quick matches to career play, catering to different types of players. Licensing is strong, especially with full Premier League teams and real managers, enhancing the game's authenticity. Customization options allow you to tailor certain aspects, though they are not as deep as in some other football games. The AI adapts well to different skill levels, providing a fair challenge for both newcomers and veterans.

FIFA 17 remains a solid choice for players seeking an engaging football game with compelling story elements and realistic gameplay, especially for those interested in experiencing the Premier League in detail.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2017 for PlayStation 4 offers a solid football game experience, especially if you enjoy realistic gameplay mechanics. Its standout feature is the Real Touch system, which makes the ball control feel natural by considering player skills and ball physics, making passing and dribbling more skillful and fun. The game also allows you to switch your team's playstyle quickly, helping you adapt your strategy on the fly. One of the most impressive aspects is the Adaptive AI that learns from how you play and changes tactics, offering a more challenging and dynamic experience, along with Advanced Instructions to customize team strategies like tight marking or tiki-taka.

Graphically, the game delivers detailed visuals for its time, though it might not be as cutting-edge compared to newer titles. The variety of game modes provides options for casual play and deeper career management, but some players may find the official licenses limited compared to other football games, meaning not all teams or players are authentic. Customization options are good, allowing you to tweak tactics and team setups, but you might miss some features that newer sports games offer.

For those seeking a football game that focuses on skillful ball control and adaptive, thoughtful AI, PES 2017 remains a strong choice on PS4. If you prioritize extensive licenses with all real teams and players or the latest graphics, this game might feel a bit dated. Fans who enjoy refining their tactics and gameplay will find this edition rewarding and engaging.