Opening a pack in EA Sports FC 25 is always a moment filled with anticipation. As a dedicated Ultimate Team player, I've learned that the thrill isn't just about who you get, but the initial reveal that hints at a player's quality. The game cleverly obscures this information, making it tricky to know instantly if you've packed a superstar. Just like in past titles, EA has designed the pack-opening animation to contain subtle visual cues that signal the overall rating of the highest-rated player inside. Recognizing these signs is a crucial skill, especially when you're investing hard-earned coins or FC Points into some of the more expensive packs available. In this guide, I'll share my experience and the details you need to watch for to instantly know if you've hit the jackpot.
There are specific visual sequences that play out based on the Overalls (OVR). Mastering these sequences is what separates the informed player from one who might miss a great pull. So, let's break down exactly what to look for when you're opening those packs.
The most immediate and definitive indicator is the walkout animation. This is the key sign to look for first. If your pack contains any player with an Overall rating of 81 or higher, the highest-rated player in that pack will be granted a special introduction. Instead of the usual quick reveal, a short cutscene will trigger. This cinematic showcases the player walking down a futuristic hallway towards you. Before the player's face is revealed, the game displays key information: their position, league, nationality, and most importantly, their club. This builds immense suspense, culminating in the big reveal of who has just arrived at your club. It's a fantastic piece of presentation that EA Sports has refined over the years.

The iconic walkout hallway in EA Sports FC 25.
Conversely, all players rated 80 or below do not feature this special cutscene. For these packs, the opening will proceed immediately to the cards, showing the highest-rated player straight away without any fanfare. Knowing this saves you from waiting through unnecessary scenes when you've pulled a common gold.
Now, within the walkout animation itself, there is a further tier of prestige. Spotting this requires eagle eyes, but it's a clear signal of an elite pull. If the pack contains a player with a rating of 86 or higher, the animation undergoes a significant upgrade. Look closely at the background of the hallway as the player walks. The lights will ignite, not in a uniform glow, but in the distinct, sharp shape of a triangle. This triangular flare of light is the unmistakable badge of a top-tier player. Once they complete their walk down the hallway, their presentation changes. Instead of simply appearing, the player will materialize in front of their player card, fully kitted out in your selected team's uniform. This is a powerful visual confirmation that you've secured someone special.
The signs are quite straightforward to spot once you know precisely where to look after parting ways with your hard-earned coins or some FC Points. With the potential to earn superstars like Manchester City's Erling Haaland or the latest Team of the Week (TOTW) cards, developing this skill is essential. Always keep a watchful eye on the background of the tunnel for that illuminating triangle.
Understanding the walkout system is more than just a neat trick; it's a fundamental aspect of building a competitive team in EA Sports FC 25. The game boasts a massive selection of players, and knowing precisely when a high-rated walkout is about to appear can make all the difference. It allows you to strategically plan your acquisitions, manage your resources wisely, and build your squad before you even step onto the virtual pitch. This knowledge turns pack openings from pure luck into informed, strategic decisions.
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Instant Feedback: No more waiting through the entire animation wondering. You know within the first few seconds if your pack has high-value potential.
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Resource Management: This is especially crucial when opening multiple packs in rapid succession, such as during promotional events or when opening packs bought with FC Points. Identifying a non-walkout quickly lets you speed through the process.
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Strategic Packing: Knowing the thresholds (81+ for walkout, 86+ for triangle lights) allows you to better mentally prepare for the results of different pack types. For example, a premium pack that guarantees a player of a certain rating will almost certainly trigger a walkout, but the lights will tell you if it's a world-class item.
To summarize the key visual cues:
| Player's Overall Rating (OVR) | Pack Opening Animation | Key Visual Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| 80 or below | No special cutscene. Cards are shown immediately. | Nothing special. |
| 81 - 85 | Standard Walkout: Player walks down the hallway. | Just the standard walkout sequence. |
| 86 or higher | Premium Walkout: Player walks + Triangle Lights in the hallway background. | Look for the glowing triangle lights in the tunnel! |
Remember, in the high-stakes world of Ultimate Team, information is power. By training your eyes to spot these visual cues, you turn every pack opening into a more controlled and less stressful experience. Good luck, and may your next pack contain that elusive walkout legend!
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