On August 28, EA Sports launched a free play weekend for College Football 26, strategically timed with the opening weekend of the 2025-26 NCAA football season. Football enthusiasts can experience the game at no cost from August 28 through 31, playing as their favorite NCAA Division I teams with full access to all standard game modes.

This free access period follows closely after the game's August Title Update, which introduced significant improvements including enhanced defensive zone coverage responsiveness and adjusted difficulty settings for CPU-controlled pass rush effectiveness. The update also modified plays in Flexbone and Wildcat formations, added new mascots from programs like Memphis and Appalachian State, and resolved various gameplay issues in Ultimate Team mode.

With the 2025-26 NCAA football season commencing, EA Sports provides gamers an opportunity to test one of their latest sports simulations. From August 28-31, College Football 26 is freely accessible on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles. The trial includes all standard gameplay modes including Road to Glory, Dynasty, and Ultimate Team, though it requires a digital download occupying approximately 40GB of storage space. Only the Standard Edition qualifies for this free weekend access. While PlayStation Plus subscription is necessary for online matches on PS5, it's not required to download and experience the trial version.

Xbox Series X/S players should note additional requirements: an active Xbox Game Pass membership is mandatory to download the free trial, and online matches require either Standard or Ultimate tier subscriptions. Interestingly, Xbox Game Pass subscribers receive two additional free weekend trials for Lost Eidolons and Surviving Mars alongside College Football 26. Game Pass Core, Standard, and Ultimate members can enjoy all three titles at no extra cost until August 31.

The free trial also features cross-play functionality, enabling newcomers to compete online against players on different platforms during the trial period. It remains to be seen how many players will take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to experience College Football 26.