EA Sports College Football 26 release brings early access, bundles, and fan hopes

EA Sports College Football 26 release is finally confirmed, and fans can mark their calendars for July 10, 2025.

Deluxe Edition buyers will get early access starting July 7, which is only three days before the full launch. The return of the college football franchise is more than just a sequel—it’s a statement from EA that the series is here to stay.

The excitement follows a mixed reception for College Football 25, which marked the franchise’s return after 12 years. While fans were thrilled, many felt the game lacked key features. EA seems ready to fix that with College Football 26. A full reveal is planned for May, and it’s expected to outline gameplay upgrades and returning features. EA has already hinted that fan feedback is driving this year’s development.

Deluxe upgrades and early access fuel pre-orders

The EA Sports College Football 26 release also brings multiple editions for fans to choose from. Besides the Standard Edition, a Deluxe Edition offers early access and additional content. Players who want both College Football and Madden can grab the EA Sports MVP Bundle for $149.99, available until April 29. It includes Deluxe versions of both College Football 26 and Madden NFL 26, releasing on August 14.

The bundle is perfect for players who enjoy both college and professional football gamingClick here for more Details. It also reflects EA’s intent to merge fan experiences across franchises. These games will be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with no mention of Nintendo Switch 2 or PC releases for College Football 26.

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EA Sports College Football 26 release skips older platforms

EA confirmed that College Football 26 won’t be coming to last-gen consoles or PC. That decision might disappoint some fans, but it ensures that the game leverages the full power of new hardware. Madden NFL 26, on the other hand, is confirmed for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

In addition, there’s hope that missing features from the last game—like Mascot Mode and Road to Glory—will return. These nostalgic elements made earlier games so beloved, and many fans were let down by their absence. Whether or not these modes make a comeback will likely be revealed in May’s showcase.

What fans want from this year’s college football game

With the EA Sports College Football 26 release, fans expect more than just roster updates. They want innovation, classic modes, and smooth gameplay. The series has a legendary history dating back to 1993 with Bill Walsh College Football. That legacy carries weight—and expectations. EA needs to show that it’s listening.

For now, players can prepare by preordering and watching for May’s full reveal. If EA delivers, College Football 26 could be the hit that fully revives the series.