AFL 26 Gameplay Trailer Revealed: New Features

Ever sat on the edge of your couch, controller in hand, waiting for that one game to bring your footy dreams to life? The AFL 26 gameplay trailer just landed, and it’s got me buzzin like I’m back playing AFL ’99 on my old PlayStation. With the game hitting PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, and Xbox One on May 8, 2025—plus a Nintendo Switch 2 release later—this is shaping up to be a massive moment for footy fans. Let’s break down what’s got me hyped and why AFL 26 might just redefine sports gaming.

The trailer isn’t just a tease; it’s a full-on flex. New screenshots showcase Ebony Marinoff slotting a goal with swagger, Jamie Elliot soaring for that mark, and Mac Andrew’s iconic celebration after schooling the Bombers last season. As someone who’s spent hours chasing pixel-perfect moments in sports games, the photogrammetry tech here is next-level. Every player—over 1,200 AFL and AFLW stars—looks like they’ve stepped off the MCG. It’s the kind of detail that makes you feel like you’re in the game, not just playing it.

AFL 26 isn’t messing around with its mechanics. The new bump and marking systems feel like they’ve been ripped straight from a real match. I’ve played every AFL title since the early 2000s, and marking has always been a crapshoot—either too easy or clunky. This time, the trailer shows a revamped system that looks fluid and responsive, with players jostling for position like it’s a real contest. Goal-kicking been tweaked too, and from what I can tell, it’s got that sweet spot of challenge and reward. Interchange management adds another layer, forcing you to think like a coach, not just a button-masher.

Here’s where AFL 26 really swings for the fences. The Player Career mode lets you start as a draft hopeful and claw your way to legend status. I remember grinding through FIFA career modes, living for those moments when my nobody striker became a club icon. This feels like that, but with the raw emotion of Aussie Rules. Train, fight for your spot, and chase premiership glory—it’s your story, and the trailer’s snippets of setbacks and triumphs hit home.

Then there’s Coach Mode, which puts you in the hot seat. Recruiting, drafting, and developing players while tweaking gameplans? That’s the kind of depth I’ve been begging for since Madden taught me to love strategy. The gameplans, built with input from actual AFL coaches, add authenticity that’ll make every decision feel like it matters. And for those who want to build a dynasty, the Pro Team mode lets you craft a squad, climb the ranks, and flex on rivals. It’s got shades of Ultimate Team, but with a footy soul.

One feature that’s got my creative side itching is the Academy Tools. You can design your own club, players, and even stadiums. Back in the day, I spent hours in NBA 2K tweaking jerseys and logos, so this is right up my alley. The trailer hints at deep customization, and I’m already dreaming of building a team to rival the greats and sharing it online. It’s a chance to leave your mark—literally.

No footy game is complete without killer commentary, and AFL 26 delivers with Anthony Hudson, Gary Lyon, Daniel Harford, Kelli Underwood, and Jason Bennett. Their voices are the soundtrack of footy for me, and hearing them call the action feels like sinking into a warm couch on game day. It’s the little things that make a sports game sing, and this nails it.

Look, I’ve been burned by sports games before—hyped-up trailers that lead to half-baked releases. But AFL 26 feels different. The fidelity, the career modes, the gameplay tweaks—it’s like the developers actually listened to fans. With over 1,200 players, a management career mode, and a Hall of Fame to chase, there’s depth here for every kind of gamer. Whether you’re a casual who just wants to kick goals or a strategist plotting premierships, this game’s got you.

With AFL 26 dropping in a week, I’m clearing my schedule. The trailer’s got me itching to dive in, and I’m betting you’re feeling it too. Want to nerd out over the new mechanics or swap ideas for custom clubs? Hit up the comments or check out our deep dive on sports game career modes for more. And if you’re as pumped as I am, keep an eye out for gameplay videos—we’ll be sharing some exclusive clips soon.

AFL 26 is coming, and it’s bringing the footy fire. Don’t sleep on this one.