Alright, let's dive into the tactics for the dominant 4213 formation. This is the real deal, the one that feels like a cheat code, and honestly, it's so good it almost makes the game boring. Don't let the chatter fool you; this formation is still top-tier, even after any potential "patches." Gameplay might vary slightly depending on your connection, but trust me, the 4213 is still a beast. Let's get into the specifics.
Team Selection and Player Roles
First things first, let's talk about the team. The key here is your CAM.
- CAM: You absolutely need Incisive Pass Plus on your CAM. This is the key to unlocking your wingers. My CAM, for example, has a ton of assists and not as many goals, which might seem weird, but that's how the CAM role is built this year. They're basically midfielders now, but they'll still get into the box. If you can't get Incisive Pass Plus, get the regular Incisive Pass. It's a game-changer.
- CDMs: Ideally, you want Incisive Pass Plus on your CDMs too, but if you can't, the regular Incisive Pass is still great.
- Other Positions: The rest of the positions are pretty self-explanatory: good wingers, a solid striker, and a defense with pace.
Custom Tactics
Here are the custom tactics that make this formation so effective.
- Build Up Play: Balanced. This is crucial, especially with the 4213. The wingers can be a bit inconsistent in their availability, and balanced helps keep them in positions where they can receive the ball. If you use counter, your wingers will be behind the fullbacks and not available for a pass.
- Defensive Approach: Aggressive. Depth: 91. This is the magic number. I've tested 100, 95, and 91, and 91 is the sweet spot. You get an automatic offside trap and a man-to-man press. Every player on your team will be marking a player, closing down the opposition before they even get the ball. This makes defending so much easier. You'll still need to control players and close down passing lanes, but your goals conceded will go down.
Player Instructions
Now, let's break down the player instructions.
- Front Three:
- Striker: Stay Central, Get in Behind
- Wingers: Get in Behind, Cut Inside, Get into Box for Cross
- CAM: Playmaker, Balanced
- CDMs: Deep Line Playmaker, Cover Center, Stay Back While Attacking. This is a game-changer. They will step up very high, but they will also join the box or join the edge of the box and become the actual Playmakers. This creates a tight attack with more options in the box.
- Defense: Fullbacks: Stay Back While Attacking, Defenders: Defend.
Gameplay Mechanics and Key Concepts
- Incisive Pass Plus: This is the key to unlocking your wingers and creating quick attacks.
- Deep Line Playmaker Buildup: This creates a compact triangle in midfield, giving you more options in attack.
- Wingers: The wingers are not always open, so you'll need to watch your mini-map and pass to them when they are.
- Counterattacks: This formation is deadly on the counter. Win the ball back, send it to your CAM, and your wingers will be in behind the fullbacks.
This formation is still the best in the game. It's dangerous in counterattacks and buildup. If you can get those passing playstyles, it will change your gameplay.