AFL 26: Cripps Still King, But What About Bontempelli?
Hey Aussie Rules fans! Big Ant Studios' AFL 26 is finally here, and let me tell you, it's been a bit of a rollercoaster. The launch was surprisingly low-key – Big Ant's website is eerily silent, which is a little odd, right? But don't worry, I've dug around and found some juicy details about what's new in this year's game.
Gameplay: Back to Basics (With a Twist)
One of the biggest changes is a renewed focus on the physical side of the game. Remember those epic big marks? They're back, baby! And the bumping system? Completely revamped. It's all about strategy and timing now – making those bone-jarring tackles feel even more impactful. It's honestly way more realistic, and way more fun.
Plus, they've added a new mode called Pro Team – think Ultimate Team, but Aussie Rules style. It joins the existing Rookie and Management Career modes, so there's something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out.
Player Ratings: Some Surprises (and a Few Snubs)
Leaked player ratings from content creator Twistie have sent ripples through the AFL community. Patrick Cripps from Carlton is still reigning supreme with a 94 overall rating. Nick Daicos from Collingwood is hot on his heels with a 93. But here's where things get interesting… some big names, like Marcus Bontempelli, saw their ratings adjusted downwards since the earlier announcements. Ouch.
At the other end of the scale, we've got the pre-season signings like Gold Coast's Ben Jepson (52) and Essendon's Tom Edwards (48) bringing up the rear. Honestly, who saw that coming?
The AFLW ratings are out too, and Ebony Marinoff (Adelaide) is leading the charge with a 93 overall. It’s pretty fitting that Cripps and Marinoff, this year's cover athletes, are at the top of their respective leagues – showing off the game's improved features.
Where to Find Your Copy
You can grab AFL 26 right now on PS4, PS5, Xbox consoles, and Steam. They're even working on a Nintendo Switch 2 version, which is exciting news for those Switch fans! So plenty of options to choose from there.
Final Thoughts: A Solid Upgrade?
Despite the quiet launch, AFL 26 looks like a significant step up. The improved physics, the new game modes, and the sometimes surprising player ratings all add up to a pretty compelling package. If you’re an Aussie Rules fan, this is definitely one to check out. So head to your favorite platform and get playing!
