One of the biggest titles under EA’s belt is most definitely the FIFA series of games. The FIFA series of games has had 28 instalments, right from the pioneer football game, FIFA 93 to the next-gen version with enhanced graphics and realism, FIFA 22. Through this series, EA has generated a massive and a loyal player base that comes back to the series for every iteration of the game that is released annually.
Unfortunately, the partnership between EA Sports and FIFA has come to an end and this would mean that the last possible FIFA game by EA Sports will be FIFA 23. Their licensing agreement will only exist till December 31, 2022, post that both entities will be embarking on their separate paths.
Post FIFA 23, the name will be changed to EA Sports FC, EA has promised that every feature that has been cherished by the players will still exist in the new iteration of the game. EA stated that all the experiences, game modes, leagues, tournaments, clubs and athletes will remain. Game modes like Ultimate Team, Career Mode, Pro Clubs and VOLTA will also exist in the new title.
According to EA, this new independent platform will unlock new opportunities for the franchise. EA also stated that they are “committed to ensuring EA SPORTS FC is a symbol of change”, and they will be “meaningfully reinvesting in the sport”. EA Sports FC will be coming in 2023, the 2022 version of the game will remain as FIFA 23.
FIFA stated that this will be first time that they will be making new football games with third-party studios and publishers, this will help them provide more choice fans of the game and football as a whole. They also stated that a number of games are already in production and are scheduled to release during the 3rd quarter of 2022. Here’s what Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, said:
“I can assure you that the only authentic, real game that has the FIFA name will be the best one available for gamers and football fans. The FIFA name is the only global, original title. FIFA 23, FIFA 24, FIFA 25 and FIFA 26, and so on – the constant is the FIFA name and it will remain forever and remain THE BEST.”
“The interactive gaming and esports sector is on a path of unrivalled growth and diversification. FIFA’s strategy is to ensure we can make the most of all future options and ensure a wide range of products and opportunities for gamers, fans, member associations and partners.”
Both EA and FIFA will be going their separate ways following the end of 2022. EA will be working on their endeavour to develop EA Sports FC as massive franchise and FIFA will be working with other types of developers and publishers to create more choice for the fans and the players of the game.
