Does FIFA 21 Cost Money? The Definitive Answer and FAQs
Yes, FIFA 21 initially cost money to purchase. While there were periods where it was offered for free through promotions like PlayStation Plus, the base game required a purchase to own and play. Prices varied depending on the edition (Standard, Champions, Ultimate) and the platform. The value one gets from purchasing the game, however, depends on individual gaming habits and expectations of the title.
Understanding FIFA 21’s Pricing and Availability
The question of whether FIFA 21 costs money isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no. While the initial purchase was certainly required, the game’s lifecycle and various promotional periods have muddied the waters somewhat.
When FIFA 21 first launched, it was available in different editions, each with a distinct price point. The Standard Edition was the most affordable, while the Champions Edition and Ultimate Edition came with additional in-game content and were priced higher. These different versions allowed players to tailor their purchase to their specific needs and wants.
Over time, FIFA 21’s price decreased, especially as newer FIFA titles were released. Physical copies could be found at discounted rates, and digital stores frequently offered sales on the game. This made it more accessible to a wider audience, even those who were initially hesitant to pay the full launch price.
Furthermore, FIFA 21 was made available for free to PlayStation Plus subscribers for a limited time. This allowed players to experience the game without having to purchase it outright, which undoubtedly boosted the game’s player base. The game was also made available through other subscription services like EA Play.
However, it is important to remember that these free promotions were temporary. Once the promotional period ended, players needed to either purchase the game or maintain their subscription to continue playing. Today, FIFA 21 is no longer being actively sold by EA Sports, but can be purchased used, or as part of a subscription service such as EA Play, or potentially acquired on sale from digital marketplaces.
The Value Proposition of FIFA 21
Whether FIFA 21 was worth the cost depends heavily on the individual player. FIFA games are known for their annual releases, with each iteration offering updated rosters, gameplay tweaks, and new features. For hardcore FIFA fans, these changes are often enough to warrant a purchase every year. However, for more casual players, the differences between each game may not be significant enough to justify the cost. The question of whether to spend any money on FIFA games is always a challenging one.
Career Mode, Ultimate Team, and Volta are key reasons why players might be inclined to pay money to play FIFA 21.
FIFA 21 introduced some improvements over previous FIFA titles, but it also retained many of the same core gameplay mechanics. This meant that players who enjoyed previous FIFA games would likely find FIFA 21 to be a worthwhile purchase. However, those who were already feeling fatigued with the FIFA formula might not have found enough new content to justify the cost. The game is, however, suitable to be enjoyed by players of all ages, though it is worth checking the local age rating.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase FIFA 21 was a personal one. Factors such as the player’s budget, their level of interest in football (soccer) games, and their willingness to invest time in the game all played a role in the decision-making process.
FIFA 21: A Learning Tool
Games like FIFA 21 also hold value beyond entertainment. They can serve as engaging learning tools, fostering strategic thinking, problem-solving, and even teamwork. Organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org, explore these educational aspects of gaming.
FIFA 21 FAQs
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about FIFA 21, covering its cost, availability, features, and other relevant information:
1. What was the original price of FIFA 21?
The original price of FIFA 21 varied depending on the edition and platform. The Standard Edition typically retailed for around $59.99 (£59.99), while the Champions Edition and Ultimate Edition were priced higher, around $79.99 (£79.99) and $89.99 (£89.99) respectively.
2. Was FIFA 21 ever free to play?
Yes, FIFA 21 was offered as a free game for PlayStation Plus subscribers in May 2022. It has also been available on EA Play.
3. What are the different editions of FIFA 21?
The different editions of FIFA 21 include the Standard Edition, Champions Edition, and Ultimate Edition. Each edition offers different in-game content and benefits, with the Ultimate Edition providing the most comprehensive package.
4. Is FIFA 21 still available for purchase?
While EA Sports no longer actively sells FIFA 21, it may be available for purchase from third-party retailers or used game stores. Check digital marketplaces for potential sales, or subscription services such as EA Play for access to play the game as part of the subscription.
5. Can I upgrade FIFA 21 from PS4 to PS5?
Yes, EA Sports offered a free upgrade from FIFA 21 on PlayStation 4 to PlayStation 5 (and Xbox One to Xbox Series X) for a limited time. This offer allowed players to continue their progress on the next-generation console. But, the disc upgrade was not available for PlayStation 5 Digital Edition.
6. What is the age rating for FIFA 21?
FIFA 21 is rated PEGI 3 in the UK and E for Everyone in the US, indicating it is suitable for all ages. However, EA Sports‘ terms and conditions state that players must be 13 or older to access online features.
7. Can a 7-year-old play FIFA 21?
Yes, a 7-year-old can play FIFA 21 offline. However, access to online features may be restricted due to EA Sports‘ age restrictions.
8. What are the main game modes in FIFA 21?
The main game modes in FIFA 21 include Career Mode, Ultimate Team, Volta Football, and Pro Clubs. Each mode offers a different gameplay experience, catering to various playstyles.
9. What is Volta Mode in FIFA 21?
Volta Football is a street football mode introduced in FIFA 20 and continued in FIFA 21. It offers a more casual and customizable experience, focusing on smaller-sided matches and skill-based gameplay.
10. Is FIFA 21 better than FIFA 20?
FIFA 21 included some improvements over FIFA 20, such as enhanced gameplay mechanics and updated content. However, the differences were not substantial enough to warrant an upgrade for all players.
11. How many copies of FIFA 21 were sold?
FIFA 21 sold over 25 million copies across console and PC platforms, contributing significantly to EA’s revenue.
12. Can I play FIFA 21 offline?
Yes, FIFA 21 can be played offline. However, some features, such as Ultimate Team and online matches, require an internet connection.
13. Is FIFA 21 available for PC?
Yes, FIFA 21 is available for PC, as well as PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
14. Why is FIFA 21 considered so good?
FIFA 21 is considered good for its solid gameplay, attractive visuals, and a variety of game modes. It delivers a comprehensive football gaming experience that appeals to many fans of the sport.
15. Is it safe for kids to play FIFA 21?
Yes, FIFA 21 is generally safe for kids, as it is rated E for Everyone and PEGI 3. However, parents should monitor their children’s online interactions and ensure they comply with EA Sports‘ age restrictions for online features. The game is often rated as being suitable for anyone playing the game offline.
We have explored the question of whether FIFA 21 cost money. The initial purchase did require a monetary transaction, and there were different editions of the game that cost different amounts. However, over the passage of time, the game was made available via free promotion, and as part of subscription packages. The game is also playable offline.