FC26 is bringing major adjustments to accelerate types, and these changes could shift the entire gameplay meta. EA has simplified the system, tweaked calculations, and introduced new height-based rules that separate male and female players. With explosive players becoming rarer and lengthy players more common, FC 26 will feel different from FC25 right from early access.

EA SPORTS FC 26 | Acceleration Types back to 3 types
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What Are FC 26 Accelerate Types?

Accelerate types define how players move based on their agility, strength, height, and body build. Originally introduced in FIFA 23, this system aims to make player motion feel more realistic. There are three main categories:

  • Explosive — shorter, faster players with quick acceleration

  • Controlled — balanced players with similar agility and strength

  • Lengthy — taller, stronger players who build speed gradually

In FC25, inflated ratings meant accelerate types mattered less, but FC26 brings fresh calculations, making them far more relevant.

FC 26 Accelerate Types Rules and Changes

EA has reverted to a simpler setup, sticking with three accelerate types instead of multiple variations from FC 24 and FC 25. However, thresholds are shifting significantly, and the formula now accounts for player gender and height.

Explosive Players Must Have:

  • Agility ≥ 10 points higher than strength

  • Acceleration ≥ 80

  • Agility ≥ 65

  • Height ≤ 182 cm (men), ≤ 162 cm (women)

Lengthy Players Must Have:

  • Strength ≥ 4 points higher than agility

  • Strength ≥ 65

  • Acceleration ≥ 40

  • Height ≥ 183 cm (men), ≥ 164 cm (women)

Controlled players sit between these thresholds. The key takeaway? Explosive players are harder to find, while lengthy players are now much easier to build around in FC26.

How FC 26 Changes Affect Gameplay Meta

The shift in thresholds is already changing how players approach early squads:

  • Explosive cards like Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., and Mohamed Salah remain top-tier, but the overall pool is smaller.

  • Players who were previously explosive—especially taller wingers and forwards—are now moving into controlled or even lengthy types.

  • For the first time, female players can qualify as lengthy, adding more options for squad diversity.

  • Height limits are a real factor: for example, Son Heung-min is now too tall to be explosive despite having elite pace.

Because explosive cards are rarer, their market value may rise early on. Meanwhile, lengthy players are becoming more common and could see renewed importance in FC26’s meta.

Planning for Early Access and Starter Squads

With the FC 26 ratings database expected to launch soon, identifying accelerate types early will give players a competitive edge. Some tips for preparing:

  • Check player stats carefully — agility, strength, and height now determine accelerate type more than ever.

  • Plan starter squads around controlled players who can flexibly fit chemistry and objectives.

  • Consider starting leagues strategically: Premier League will be popular, but La Liga, Serie A, and NWSL combinations may offer better value for SBCs.

  • Keep an eye on explosive players; fewer available cards mean higher demand in the market.

As early access begins, the new accelerate rules will directly influence gameplay, squad building, and trading strategies.