EA Sports FC 25 has faced significant backlash, prompting a substantial "Gameplay Refresh Update." Criticisms extend beyond monetization practices to encompass technical issues and gameplay mechanics. The update addresses over 50 areas, including core gameplay systems like assists, shooting, goalkeeping, and defending.

Key improvements include: enhanced responsiveness in attacking maneuvers, smoother ball movement, reduced AI reliance on reverse tackles and interceptions, and a decrease in the effectiveness of crossing passes. Players in familiar positions will offer quicker support, and offside detection for AI-controlled players has been refined. Accuracy of long-range shots has also seen a slight improvement.

Initial player reception was overwhelmingly negative, with only 36% of 474 reviews positive upon release. Common complaints cited EA's perceived greed, numerous bugs and crashes, and PlayStation controller compatibility problems. Furthermore, the game's anti-cheat measures render it incompatible with the Steam Deck.