GabrielFrom enhanced stadium customization, legacy players, reduced grind, to advanced graphics with new game modes, a lot of fans are clamouring for some improvements and additions to the already interesting Dream League Soccer football game.
Dream League Soccer (DLS) has become a cornerstone of mobile soccer gaming, known for its realistic gameplay, extensive customization, and engaging progression systems. As we look ahead to Dream League Soccer 2026 (DLS 26), which is expected to be the next major update following DLS 25, players and fans have shared a wealth of feedback and desires based on their experiences with previous versions.
In our article today, we have compiled detailed expectations, drawing from player discussions, current trends in soccer games, and the evolution of the DLS series, to outline what the community hopes to see in DLS 26.
But before we proceed, let’s talk about when the game will be officially released or launched.
Dream League Soccer 2026 Release Date
DLS 26 is expected to be released in November or December 2025. Historically, First Touch Games releases new editions or updates annually, typically around November or December. For instance, Dream League Soccer 2024 was released on November 30, 2023, and Dream League Soccer 2025 followed in December 2024. Given this pattern, Dream League Soccer 2026 might be expected around November or December 2025, likely as a season update rather than a full new release. I will update you once First Touch Games Ltd reveals the official release date.
Background and Context
DLS 25, released in December 2024, introduced features such as upgraded stadium visuals, a new color scheme, legendary players, a ball tracking system, and Brazilian commentary elements, as highlighted in recent updates. These improvements set a foundation for further enhancements in DLS 26, which is anticipated to build on these advancements and address player pain points.
What We Want to See in DSL 26
1. Enhanced Stadium Customization
Players have expressed a strong desire for more flexibility in stadium design, particularly the removal of the minimum capacity limit. For instance, a Reddit discussion highlighted a preference for smaller, more realistic stadiums, such as a 20,000-capacity ground, over larger ones, which could enhance the game’s authenticity. Additional customization options, such as new themes, lighting effects, and crowd animations, could further personalize the experience, making each stadium feel unique to the player’s vision.
| Feature | Description | Player Feedback Score |
|---|---|---|
| Remove Capacity Limit | Allow smaller, realistic stadiums (e.g., 20,000) | High (11 votes) |
| New Stadium Themes | Add customizable themes and lighting | Moderate (anticipated) |
| Crowd Animations | Enhance crowd reactions and visuals | Moderate (anticipated) |
2. Legacy Players and Expanded Roster
A significant demand is for legacy players, such as Pirlo, Zidane, and LuÃs Figo, to be included as special purchasable players. Also requested are Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo. These players should be accessible with a reasonable number of gems, avoiding excessive grinding.
Additionally, players want an increase in roster slots, currently limited to 60, to accommodate more licensed players. This would enhance team-building options and cater to fans who enjoy collecting iconic players from soccer history.
| Legacy Player Example | Suggested Accessibility | Desired Slot Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Messi, Ronaldo, Suarez | Reasonable gems cost | Beyond 60 slots |
| Current Licensed Players | Over 4,000 (DLS 25) | Expand further |
3. Reduced Grind and Improved Progression
The Prize Ladder system has been criticized for being too grindy, with players suggesting a more balanced progression system that rewards skill and strategy rather than repetitive play. Simplifying the requirements for division promotions and reducing the number of games needed to complete objectives, such as within 15 division games in Career Mode, would make the game more enjoyable for casual players. This could involve streamlining the Prize Ladder and introducing alternative reward systems, such as milestone achievements.
| Issue | Suggested Improvement | Impact on Players |
|---|---|---|
| Prize Ladder Grind | Reduce grind, balance rewards | Improved casual play |
| Division Promotion | Simplify objectives, fewer games needed | Faster progression |
4. More Customization Options
Players have suggested adding poses and emotes for players to enhance team personalization, allowing for more creative expression and dynamic gameplay. Further customization for kits, player appearances, and team logos would also be welcomed, building on the existing customization features that have made DLS popular. This could include options for player celebrations, kit designs inspired by real-world trends, and more detailed logo creation tools.
| Customization Type | Examples | Player Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Player Poses/Emotes | Celebrations, unique stances | High (Reddit feedback) |
| Kit and Logo Design | Custom patterns, real-world inspired designs | Moderate (anticipated) |
5. Formation and Tactics Overhaul
Specific formations, such as 3-4-2-1, have been flagged as problematic due to issues with wingers and attacking play, with players requesting more tactical depth. This could involve introducing custom player instructions, advanced formations, and better AI responses to tactical changes. Enhancing the tactical aspect would cater to players who enjoy strategic gameplay and could make matches more competitive and engaging.
| Formation Issue | Suggested Improvement | Expected Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 3-4-2-1 Winger Problems | Improve winger positioning, attacking options | Better tactical depth |
| Custom Instructions | Add player-specific tactics | Enhanced strategy |
6. Advanced Graphics and AI
Building on DLS 25‘s improvements, DLS 26 should continue to enhance graphics, particularly in player animations, stadium visuals, and ball physics, to make the game more realistic. Improved AI for opponents, especially in higher divisions, would make matches more challenging and immersive, ensuring that the game scales appropriately for skilled players.
| Graphic/AI Aspect | Current Status (DLS 25) | Desired Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Player Animations | 3D motion-captured, improved | More fluid, realistic |
| Opponent AI | Enhanced, but needs scaling | Smarter, challenging |
7. New Game Modes
Introducing new game modes could keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. Suggestions include expanded online tournaments, special events, and a “real-world scenario” mode where players can replay and progress through famous soccer matches or scenarios, as rumored in DLS 25 updates. These modes would cater to both competitive and casual players, enhancing replayability.
| New Mode Example | Description | Player Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Online Tournaments | Expanded competitive play | High (esports focus) |
| Real-World Scenarios | Replay famous matches | Moderate (anticipated) |
8. Virtual Reality (VR) Integration
With VR technology becoming more accessible, integrating VR elements could provide a more immersive experience. Players could step into the shoes of their favorite players or managers, offering a first-person perspective on matches. This would be a forward-looking feature, aligning with trends in mobile gaming and enhancing the sensory experience of DLS.
9. Cross-Platform Play
Allowing players on different devices (iOS, Android, and potentially PC) to play together would expand the community and enhance the multiplayer experience. This feature would make it easier for friends to compete or cooperate across platforms, fostering a larger, more connected player base.
10. Esports Integration
Given the growing popularity of esports, DLS 26 could include features that support competitive play, such as official leaderboards, tournaments, and rewards for top players. This would attract more competitive players and elevate the game’s status in the esports community, potentially leading to official DLS tournaments.
11. More Licensed Players and Leagues
Players want to see more licensed players and leagues added to the game, building on the current roster of over 4,000 FIFPRO licensed players in DLS 25. Investing in licensing for additional teams and players would make the game more authentic and appealing, offering more variety for team-building.
12. Improved Online Multiplayer
Enhancing the online multiplayer experience by reducing lag, improving matchmaking, and introducing more competitive modes would make the game more engaging for players who enjoy online challenges. This could include ranked matches, seasonal leaderboards, and better server stability to ensure smooth gameplay.
PREVIOUS EDITIONS OF THE GAME:
Conclusion
Dream League Soccer 2026 has the potential to take the series to new heights by addressing player feedback and incorporating cutting-edge features. By focusing on enhanced customization, reduced grind, advanced graphics, new game modes, and integration with emerging technologies like VR, DLS 26 can deliver a more immersive and enjoyable experience for both casual and competitive players.
Additionally, expanding the roster of licensed players, introducing cross-platform play, and supporting esports would broaden the game’s appeal and strengthen its community. These improvements align with current trends in mobile gaming and soccer simulations, ensuring that DLS 26 remains a top choice for soccer fans worldwide.
Gabriel
