Do I Need EA Play to Play FIFA 23 on PS5? The Ultimate Guide
The short answer is no, you don’t absolutely need EA Play to play FIFA 23 on PS5, but it significantly enhances the experience and, in some ways, is necessary to access the game currently. However, the nuances are important, so let’s dive into the details.
Understanding the Relationship Between FIFA 23, EA Play, and PS5
FIFA 23 has been a somewhat complicated case, particularly following the launch of its successor, EA Sports FC 24. The game was delisted from digital storefronts, making it difficult to purchase outright. This action has pushed players towards EA Play subscriptions as a primary means of accessing the game. While a physical copy of FIFA 23, if you can find one, will allow you to play offline modes without EA Play (after installation and updates), accessing online features will still require an EA Account.
So, while owning a physical copy technically allows offline play without an active EA Play subscription, the digital landscape heavily favors EA Play as a gateway to the game, especially for online play and ongoing updates.
Accessing FIFA 23 in Today’s Gaming Environment
Given the delisting, EA Play provides a convenient way to experience FIFA 23. As a subscriber, you get access to a library of EA titles, including FIFA 23, for as long as your subscription remains active. This “rental” model is increasingly common in gaming, offering a cost-effective way to try multiple games without purchasing them individually.
However, you’re essentially borrowing the game. If your EA Play subscription lapses, you’ll lose access to FIFA 23 until you renew or purchase a physical copy (if available).
Benefits of EA Play for FIFA 23 Players on PS5
Even if you own a physical copy of FIFA 23, an EA Play subscription can provide some additional perks such as:
- In-Game Rewards: EA Play often grants members exclusive in-game challenges and rewards, like FIFA Ultimate Team Season XP Boosts, fresh VOLTA FOOTBALL apparel and coins, and Pro Clubs gear.
- Early Trials: Although less relevant now that FIFA 23 is no longer “new,” EA Play traditionally offers early access trials for upcoming EA titles, allowing you to try them before committing to a purchase.
- Discounts: EA Play subscribers receive a 10% discount on EA digital purchases, including full games, expansion packs, and in-game currency.
- Access to a Library of Games: Your subscription gives you access to a whole host of EA titles.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About FIFA 23 and EA Play on PS5
Here’s a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about FIFA 23, EA Play, and PlayStation 5, designed to address any lingering concerns you might have:
1. Can I play FIFA 23 online without PlayStation Plus?
Yes, you still require a PlayStation Plus subscription to play FIFA 23 online on the PS5, regardless of whether you have EA Play. PlayStation Plus is separate from EA Play and is needed for accessing online multiplayer features on PlayStation consoles.
2. Does FIFA 23 require an EA Account?
Yes, an EA Account is required to play FIFA 23, even if you have a physical copy. This account is necessary to access online features, receive updates, and link your progress across different platforms.
3. Why was FIFA 23 delisted from digital storefronts?
The delisting is likely tied to EA losing the FIFA license. This means that EA can no longer sell games under the FIFA name and is now focusing on its EA Sports FC franchise.
4. Is EA Play Pro required to play the full version of FIFA 23?
As of this writing, EA Play Pro is not required to play the full version of FIFA 23 through the standard EA Play subscription. However, EA Play Pro often offers additional premium content and early access to newer titles.
5. Can I transfer my FIFA 23 progress to EA Sports FC 24?
Progress in some modes, particularly FIFA Ultimate Team, typically carries over between FIFA titles. Check the EA Sports FC 24 documentation for specifics.
6. What happens to my FIFA 23 progress if my EA Play subscription expires?
If your EA Play subscription expires, you will lose access to the game through EA Play. However, your progress will usually be saved to your EA Account, and you should be able to pick up where you left off if you resubscribe or purchase the game outright (if available).
7. How much does EA Play cost on PS5?
EA Play is typically priced at $4.99 per month or $29.99 per year on PS5.
8. How do I cancel my EA Play subscription on PS5?
You can cancel your EA Play subscription on PS5 through the following steps: Settings > Users and Accounts > Account > Payment and Subscriptions > Subscriptions > EA Play > Turn Off Auto-Renew.
9. Is EA Play worth it for FIFA fans?
EA Play can be a good value for FIFA fans, providing access to FIFA 23 and potential discounts on FIFA Points and other in-game content. It’s especially worthwhile if you enjoy other EA titles in the EA Play library.
10. Why can’t I play a game on FIFA 23?
Common reasons for being unable to play FIFA 23 include incorrect system date and time, server issues, and connectivity problems. Ensure your PS5 is connected to the internet and that your system’s date and time are accurate.
11. What are the benefits of EA Play on PS5 besides FIFA 23?
Beyond FIFA 23, EA Play provides access to a library of EA games, exclusive member content, early trials of new releases, and a 10% discount on EA digital purchases.
12. Do I need to buy FIFA 23 if I have EA Play?
No, you don’t need to buy FIFA 23 if you have EA Play, as the subscription grants you access to the game while your membership is active. However, if you want to own the game permanently (or if it leaves the EA Play library), purchasing it is necessary.
13. Can I use crossplay in FIFA 23?
Yes, FIFA 23 supports crossplay on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. To enable crossplay, go to the Social settings in the FIFA 23 main menu and ensure that “Cross-play Enabled” is set to “Yes”.
14. What if my EA Account is linked to the wrong PSN ID?
You can check the Connections page in your EA Account settings to see which PSN ID is linked. If it’s incorrect, you’ll need to unlink the incorrect account and link the correct one. Contact EA Support for assistance if you encounter issues with unlinking.
15. Is EA Play separate from PlayStation Plus?
Yes, EA Play and PlayStation Plus are separate subscription services. PlayStation Plus is required for online multiplayer access, while EA Play provides access to a library of EA games and other benefits.
The Future of FIFA and EA Play
With the evolution of the FIFA franchise into EA Sports FC, the role of EA Play will continue to be significant in accessing and experiencing EA’s football games. For those invested in the yearly release cycle and broad access to other EA titles, EA Play remains a compelling option.
Ultimately, the decision to subscribe to EA Play for FIFA 23 (and now EA Sports FC) depends on your gaming habits, budget, and desire to explore EA’s broader game library. While not strictly mandatory to play FIFA 23 if you have a physical copy for offline play, it offers considerable benefits and represents the primary avenue for digital access.
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