Is FIFA 23 the Last FIFA Ever? The End of an Era and a New Beginning
Yes, FIFA 23 is indeed the last game in the iconic series to bear the FIFA name, marking the end of a 30-year partnership between Electronic Arts (EA) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). While it signals the conclusion of an era, it also heralds a new beginning with EA Sports FC, a rebranded football gaming franchise promising to continue the legacy.
The Breakup: Why FIFA and EA Parted Ways
The separation between EA and FIFA wasn’t a sudden decision but the culmination of years of simmering disagreements, primarily revolving around financial demands and the scope of licensing rights. To put it simply, it all came down to money and control. FIFA reportedly sought to more than double the licensing fee it charged EA to use its name, demanding a staggering $300 million annually, up from the previous $150 million.
Furthermore, FIFA reportedly wanted to restrict EA’s rights, limiting the game to a pure “soccer simulation” and preventing EA from exploring other potential avenues within the virtual football realm. EA, unwilling to concede to these demands and sacrifice creative control over its flagship franchise, ultimately decided to sever ties.
The Dawn of EA Sports FC
With the FIFA license relinquished, EA moved forward with the creation of EA Sports FC 24, released on September 29, 2023. This marked the first installment in the new franchise, free from the constraints of the FIFA agreement but committed to delivering the same immersive and authentic football experience that fans had come to expect.
EA Sports FC retains access to a vast network of licenses with leagues, teams, and players globally, ensuring that the game features the real-world stars, clubs, and competitions that fans crave. Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, and other major leagues continue to be fully integrated, offering players a realistic and captivating gaming experience.
Will EA Sports FC Suffer Without the FIFA Name?
The short answer is, probably not. The strength of the game has always been rooted in its gameplay, graphics, licenses of the teams and players and overall user experience. While the FIFA name carries weight, EA Sports FC banks on the established brand recognition and its capability to deliver a high-quality football game. For more insights on game design and its impact, consider exploring the resources at the Games Learning Society website.
FIFA’s Future in Gaming
Following the split with EA, FIFA has made it clear that it intends to remain a player in the video game market. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that FIFA would be developing its own football games. It remains to be seen what form these games will take and whether they will be able to compete with the established dominance of EA Sports FC.
FIFA 23: A Fond Farewell
FIFA 23 holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. Not only is it a solid football game in its own right, but it also stands as the final chapter of a beloved franchise that defined the genre for three decades. It is available for play, with the possibility of finding it through EA Play subscriptions. It remains a fitting tribute to the legacy of the FIFA series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 FAQ 1: Will there be a FIFA 24?
No, there will not be a FIFA 24 developed by EA Sports. FIFA 23 is the last game in the series developed by EA to carry the FIFA name. The successor to the franchise is EA Sports FC 24. However, FIFA the organization is planning to make it’s own game. It is possible that it will be named FIFA 24.
H3 FAQ 2: Why did EA and FIFA split?
The primary reason for the split was a disagreement over financial terms and licensing rights. FIFA sought to significantly increase the licensing fee it charged EA and also wanted to restrict the scope of EA’s rights. EA was unwilling to meet these demands, leading to the termination of the partnership.
H3 FAQ 3: What is EA Sports FC?
EA Sports FC is the new name for EA’s football game franchise, formerly known as FIFA. It represents a rebranding of the series following the end of the partnership between EA and FIFA.
H3 FAQ 4: Will EA Sports FC have real players and teams?
Yes, EA Sports FC retains licenses with major leagues, teams, and players around the world. This ensures that the game will feature authentic representations of real-world football stars and clubs.
H3 FAQ 5: Is FIFA 23 still available for purchase?
As of now, FIFA 23 has been delisted from digital storefronts like Steam and Epic Games Store. This means it is no longer available for purchase directly from these platforms. However, players who have already purchased the game can continue to play it, and it is possible to access it through EA Play subscriptions.
H3 FAQ 6: Will there be future FIFA games made by FIFA?
Yes, FIFA has stated its intention to develop its own football games in the future. The details of these games, including their release dates and platforms, are currently unknown.
H3 FAQ 7: What happens to FIFA 23 after EA Sports FC 24 is released?
While FIFA 23 is no longer available for purchase on many platforms, players who own the game can continue to play it. EA Play subscribers may also have access to the game.
H3 FAQ 8: Will EA Sports FC be the same as FIFA?
EA Sports FC is expected to offer a similar gameplay experience to the FIFA games of the past. It will retain many of the popular game modes, such as Ultimate Team and Career Mode, and will continue to focus on delivering realistic football simulation.
H3 FAQ 9: How long does Career Mode last in FIFA 23?
In FIFA 23 Career Mode, players can enjoy playing for up to 15 seasons, spanning from the 2022/23 season to the 2036/37 season.
H3 FAQ 10: Why did EA change the name from FIFA?
The name change from FIFA to EA Sports FC was due to the expiration of the licensing agreement between EA and FIFA. With the agreement terminated, EA was no longer authorized to use the FIFA name for its football game franchise.
H3 FAQ 11: Is FIFA 23 worth buying?
Whether FIFA 23 is worth buying depends on individual preferences. If you are a fan of the FIFA series and enjoy its gameplay, game modes, and features, then FIFA 23 can be a worthwhile purchase. The availability and price will affect the purchasing decision.
H3 FAQ 12: How much better is FIFA 23 than FIFA 22?
FIFA 23 introduced several improvements over FIFA 22, including enhanced gameplay mechanics, improved graphics, and more realistic player movements. Many players and critics considered FIFA 23 to be a significant upgrade over its predecessor.
H3 FAQ 13: Will FC 24 have real players?
Yes, FC 24 includes real players. Despite the change in name from FIFA to EA Sports FC, EA retains the licenses to include real players from various leagues and clubs around the world.
H3 FAQ 14: What is FIFA short for?
FIFA stands for Fédération Internationale de Football Association, which translates to International Federation of Association Football. It is the international governing body of association football, futsal, and beach soccer. For more information on learning in gaming environments, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
H3 FAQ 15: When was EA Sports FC 24 released?
EA Sports FC 24 was officially released worldwide on September 29, 2023. Players who pre-ordered the Ultimate Edition gained access to the game on September 22, 2023.