Can You Play FIFA 23 Online on Xbox? The Complete Guide

Yes, absolutely! You can play FIFA 23 online on Xbox. However, there’s a crucial catch. To access the online multiplayer features of FIFA 23 on an Xbox console (Xbox Series X|S, or Xbox One), you need an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription. Without one of these subscriptions, you’ll be limited to offline game modes. Think of it like needing a key to unlock the online stadium doors. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics and address some frequently asked questions.

Understanding the Xbox Subscription Requirement

The requirement for an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription is a policy implemented by Microsoft for most paid online multiplayer games on their console platform. This isn’t unique to FIFA; it applies to many other games as well. Consider it an investment that unlocks a vast library of online experiences.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the premium tier, offering access to a huge library of games on both console and PC, plus Xbox Cloud Gaming and all the benefits of Xbox Game Pass Core. Xbox Game Pass Core is a more budget-friendly option that provides online multiplayer access and a smaller selection of games.

If you try to access an online mode in FIFA 23 without the necessary subscription, the game will prompt you to subscribe. You won’t be able to connect to the EA servers for online play.

FIFA 23 Online Modes Affected

The following FIFA 23 game modes are affected by the subscription requirement on Xbox:

• FUT Division Rivals (except Co-Op)
• FUT Champions
• FUT Ultimate Online Draft
• FUT Online Friendlies (except Co-Op)
• FUT Play a Friend
• Online Friendlies
• Online Seasons (except Co-Op Seasons)
• Volta Football (Online Modes)
• Pro Clubs

Basically, any mode that involves playing against or with other players online falls under this requirement.

What About Offline Modes?

The good news is that you can still enjoy many aspects of FIFA 23 offline without a subscription. Career Mode, Kick-Off Mode, and Skill Games are all playable offline. So, if you’re not keen on paying for online access, you can still get plenty of enjoyment from the single-player content.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Even with an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription, you might encounter connection issues with FIFA 23. Here are some common troubleshooting steps:

• Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and reliable internet connection. Run a speed test to verify your bandwidth and ping.
• Restart Your Router and Modem: This simple step can often resolve temporary network glitches. Unplug your router and modem, wait 30 seconds, plug them back in, and wait for them to fully reboot.
• Check Xbox Live Status: Visit the official Xbox website to check for any server outages or maintenance. If there are issues on Microsoft’s end, you’ll need to wait for them to be resolved.
• Update FIFA 23: Make sure your game is updated to the latest version. Patches often include fixes for connectivity issues.
• Check Your Xbox Account: Verify that your Xbox account is in good standing and that you’re signed in correctly.
• Ensure Correct Date and Time: An incorrect date and time on your console can interfere with online connections.
• Power Cycle Your Xbox: Turn off your Xbox completely, unplug it from the power outlet for a few minutes, and then plug it back in and turn it on.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to playing FIFA 23 online on Xbox:

1. Do I need Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to play FIFA 23 online?

   You need either Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core to play most online multiplayer modes in FIFA 23 on Xbox.

2. Can I play Career Mode online with friends in FIFA 23?

   While FIFA 23 doesn’t natively support online co-op Career Mode, you can use Parsec to create a local co-op experience over the internet.

3. Is FIFA 23 crossplay compatible?

   FIFA 23 features crossplay, but it’s limited to players within the same console generation. This means PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S players can play together, while PlayStation 4 and Xbox One players can play together.

4. Why can’t I connect to EA servers on FIFA 23?

   Possible reasons include server outages, internet connection issues, incorrect date and time settings, or problems with your Xbox account. Troubleshooting steps such as restarting your router and checking the Xbox Live status can often resolve these issues.

5. Can I play FIFA 23 online without paying extra?

   On Xbox, you’ll need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription in addition to purchasing the game.

6. How do I check the Xbox Live server status?

   Visit the official Xbox website or the Xbox Support Twitter account to check the current server status.

7. What FIFA 23 modes can I play offline?

   You can play Career Mode, Kick-Off Mode, Skill Games, and other single-player modes offline.

8. Is FIFA 23 free to play on Xbox with Game Pass?

   FIFA 23 isn’t inherently free, but it may be included as part of the Xbox Game Pass library at certain times. Check the Game Pass catalog for availability.

9. Why is my FIFA 23 online friendlies not working?

   Ensure both you and your friend have active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core subscriptions, and that you are on the same console generation if attempting crossplay.

10. Is Volta Football available online in FIFA 23?

    Yes, Volta Football has online modes that require an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription. The four signature abilities are core to the Volta game mode.

11. What do I do if my system date and time are incorrect?

    Go to your Xbox settings and manually set the correct date and time.

12. How do I update FIFA 23 on Xbox?

    Updates are usually downloaded and installed automatically. You can also manually check for updates in the game management settings.

13. Can a child play FIFA 23 online?

    Yes, but parents can set parental controls on the Xbox account to manage online access time and spending limits. Online play does not require chat.

14. Is FIFA 23 the last FIFA game by EA?

    Yes, FIFA 23 is the last game in the series to bear the FIFA name. Future games will be released under the title EA Sports FC.

15. Where can I learn more about the social impact of video games?

    You can explore valuable resources and research at the Games Learning Society website: GamesLearningSociety.org. This organization focuses on the educational and social implications of gaming.

Conclusion

Playing FIFA 23 online on Xbox is definitely possible, but it hinges on having the right subscription. Make sure you have an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate or Xbox Game Pass Core membership to fully enjoy the online modes. By addressing common connection issues and understanding the subscription requirements, you’ll be well-equipped to dominate the virtual pitch. Happy gaming!