It’s that time of year again. Fresh off a memorable World Cup, gamers across the globe can’t wait to get their hands on FIFA 15 with hopes of leading their club to glory. With the summer season over and squads finalized, it’s time to rejoice, set your DVRs, order the latest kit, and of course, play FIFA.

Now that the release is less than a week away let’s takes a look at five reasons why you should be excited for FIFA 15:

Barclays Premier League – Make no mistake, the BPL is a huge selling point for EA, and rightfully so. It’s the most popular league in the world with a following that spans the globe. EA Canada realizes this and went all out this year featuring all 20 BPL stadiums, authentic Sky Sports presentation, over 200 new player head scans, crowd specific chants/songs, and even goal line technology. Fans of West Ham United can now sing along when the Upton Park faithful break out in chorus to the tune of “I’m Forever Blowing Bubbles.”

Pure Emotion – With its second iteration on the latest system, EA Canada has harnessed the power of the PS4 and Xbox One to recreate what you see on your television when watching the beautiful game. With over 600 new emotions you can expect to see your players exhibit a touch of personality. The emotion isn’t solely reserved for the on-the-pitch action. Crowds will also react to crunching tackles, stoppage time goals, and various other events taking place on the pitch. Blow a sitter with Fernando Torres and watch your AC Milan teammates console the once lethal striker as the San Siro crowd voices its displeasure.

Improved AI – We’ve all heard this from EA before in regards to this series. If the demo is indicative of the final product, FIFA fans will be happy with the most intelligent AI this series has seen to date. The CPU will now adapt to your tactics on the fly. Down a goal late in a cup match? Throw on that extra striker and expect to see the CPU employ time-wasting techniques that would make Tony Pulis proud. Players dribbling to the corner flag, 11 men behind the ball, and a possession based approach are all available at the CPU’s disposal. Good luck going to Stamford Bridge and breaking down the bus parked in-front of keeper Thibaut Courtois.

Expanded Team Tactics - Offline career mode junkies (myself included) are delighted with the addition of “Unrivaled Intelligence.” With up to six different team sheets at your disposal, virtual managers can now alter their formation, tactics and player roles based on your next opponent. Give the youngsters a run out in the Capital One Cup with a preset lineup. Instruct your fullbacks to always overlap providing width to your attack. Want to employ a high pressure system with Atletico Madrid against your hated cross-town rivals Real Madrid? This year, you’re able to instruct striker Mario Mandzukic to press the opponents back line forcing Sergio Ramos and Pepe into mistakes as the big boss, Florentino Perez, cringes.

Ultimate Team Additions – The hugely popular and revolutionary Ultimate Team mode also features some key improvements for FIFA 15. A now instituted loan system allows users to try out star players before deciding if they fit into their plans. The newly added “Concept Squads” feature brings the ability to plan ahead using the entire player catalogue with an eye on future purchases while testing chemistry compatibilities to ensure that your squad gels. EA has also taken strides at reducing the flagrant cheating that has often plagued the mode. Gamers caught coin buying and promoting run the risk of having their Ultimate Club and FIFA points reset. Repeat offenders as well those engaging in coin sell and farming could see a permanent online ban for all FIFA games. Worried about how mercurial front-man Carlos Tevez will affect your team’s chemistry? Why not use the loan feature and bring him in for a spell. If he doesn’t work out you can send him and his shady agent on their way.


What new FIFA 15 features are you most excited about?