Do You Still Play FIFA 23? The Enduring Appeal & FAQs
The answer, for many, is a resounding yes, despite the release of EA Sports FC 24. While the allure of the newest iteration is undeniable, FIFA 23 retains a strong player base, driven by a combination of factors: established team builds, gameplay preferences, cost considerations, and a lingering nostalgia for what was, arguably, a peak era for the FIFA franchise. Many players simply haven’t seen enough substantial improvements in EA Sports FC 24 to warrant the full price purchase.
Why FIFA 23 Still Holds Its Ground
The video game lifecycle is a constantly evolving landscape. Typically, with each annual release of a sports title like FIFA, the previous version slowly fades into obscurity. However, FIFA 23 is proving to be an exception. Several key reasons contribute to its enduring appeal:
The Power of Familiarity
For players who invested significant time building their Ultimate Team in FIFA 23, the prospect of starting from scratch in a new game is daunting. The time, effort, and (often) money spent acquiring top-tier players, mastering formations, and perfecting tactics create a powerful sense of ownership and investment. Leaving that behind is a difficult decision.
Gameplay Preferences
While EA strives to improve gameplay with each release, these changes aren’t always universally welcomed. Some players find the gameplay mechanics of FIFA 23 to be more enjoyable than those of EA Sports FC 24. Factors like pace, dribbling, and passing can all contribute to individual preferences. If a player genuinely prefers the feel of FIFA 23, there’s little incentive to switch.
Cost Considerations
New releases come with a price tag. For casual players, the cost of a new game might not justify the perceived improvements, especially if they are content with their existing FIFA 23 experience. The cheaper price of FIFA 23 on the used game market or through digital sales makes it an attractive option.
Nostalgia and Peak Era Sentiment
Many consider FIFA 23 to represent a high point in the FIFA series. It includes features that some believe have been diluted or removed in subsequent releases. The game also benefited from a full cycle of live content updates, including Team of the Season (TOTS), FUT Birthday, and other promotional events, creating a rich and engaging experience that players may be reluctant to abandon.
Stable Servers and Known Bugs
While no game is perfect, FIFA 23’s servers are generally more stable than a newly released game’s, particularly in the early months. Also, players are accustomed to the known bugs and glitches in FIFA 23, allowing them to adapt their gameplay accordingly. A new game often introduces a fresh batch of unforeseen issues.
The Future of FIFA 23
Despite its continued popularity, the long-term future of FIFA 23 is uncertain. As EA focuses its resources on EA Sports FC 24, support for FIFA 23 will eventually diminish. Server maintenance will continue for a period of time, but new content updates and fixes are unlikely.
However, the community built around FIFA 23 may continue to thrive independently through offline modes, custom leagues, and online communities. Mods and fan-made patches can also extend the game’s lifespan, adding new features and content. Ultimately, the longevity of FIFA 23 will depend on the dedication of its player base.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the continuing relevance and nuances surrounding playing FIFA 23:
1. Will FIFA 23 Servers Shut Down?
EA typically maintains server support for older FIFA titles for a certain period. While an official shutdown date for FIFA 23 hasn’t been announced, it’s likely to happen eventually. Expect server support to continue for at least a year after the release of EA Sports FC 24, possibly longer. However, new content updates will cease.
2. Can I Still Play Ultimate Team in FIFA 23?
Yes, you can still play Ultimate Team (FUT) in FIFA 23, provided the servers are active. However, new promotional content is no longer being released. You can still participate in existing game modes, complete Squad Building Challenges (SBCs) with available players, and play matches.
3. Is FIFA 23 Still Worth Buying?
If you’re on a tight budget and enjoy football games, FIFA 23 can be worth buying, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. It offers a complete FIFA experience with a vast roster of teams and players. However, keep in mind that it won’t receive any further updates.
4. Are There Still Players Online in FIFA 23?
Yes, there’s still an active player base online in FIFA 23, although it’s smaller than it was at the game’s peak. You can still find opponents in Ultimate Team, Online Seasons, and other online modes, though matchmaking times might be longer.
5. Will My FIFA 23 Ultimate Team Transfer to EA Sports FC 24?
No, progress and items from your FIFA 23 Ultimate Team cannot be transferred to EA Sports FC 24. Each new iteration requires you to build your team from scratch.
6. Can I Still Play Career Mode in FIFA 23?
Absolutely! Career Mode is a single-player experience, so you can continue to play it without relying on online servers. It remains fully functional, allowing you to manage your favorite club, develop players, and compete for trophies.
7. Are There Any New Updates for FIFA 23?
No, EA has stopped releasing new content updates for FIFA 23. The focus is now entirely on EA Sports FC 24 and its updates.
8. Is FIFA 23 Better Than EA Sports FC 24?
Whether FIFA 23 is “better” is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Some players prefer FIFA 23’s gameplay mechanics, while others appreciate the new features and advancements in EA Sports FC 24. Try both games if possible to determine which one you enjoy more.
9. How Long Will FIFA 23 Be Playable?
FIFA 23 will be playable as long as you have access to the game and your platform (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox, PC) supports it. Even after the servers shut down, offline modes like Career Mode and Kick-Off will remain accessible.
10. Where Can I Buy FIFA 23 Now?
You can typically find FIFA 23 on the used game market, online retailers, and digital storefronts like PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, and Steam. Prices may vary depending on the platform and vendor.
11. Is There a FIFA 23 Community I Can Join?
Yes, numerous FIFA 23 communities exist online. You can find them on platforms like Reddit, Discord, and dedicated FIFA forums. These communities offer a space to discuss the game, share tips, and find opponents for online matches.
12. Can I Mod FIFA 23?
Yes, FIFA 23 on PC is moddable. Modding communities have created various mods that add new features, update player faces, and improve the overall gameplay experience. However, modding is not possible on consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.
13. What are the Best Formations to Use in FIFA 23 Now?
Popular formations in FIFA 23 include the 4-2-3-1, 4-3-3 (attacking), and 4-4-2. The best formation depends on your playstyle and the players you have available. Experiment to find what works best for you.
14. Are There Still FIFA 23 Tournaments?
While official EA-sponsored FIFA 23 tournaments have likely ceased, community-organized tournaments may still be active. Check online forums and social media groups for information on ongoing or upcoming tournaments.
15. Is it worth upgrading from FIFA 23 to EA Sports FC 24?
This depends on your personal preferences and budget. EA Sports FC 24 offers updated rosters, improved graphics (on next gen), and new gameplay features. However, if you are happy with FIFA 23 and not interested in the changes, it might not be worth the upgrade. Consider trying a demo or watching gameplay videos before making a decision.