Is FIFA 23 Delisted? Unpacking EA’s Decision and What It Means for Gamers
Yes, FIFA 23 has been delisted from all major digital storefronts, including the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Nintendo eShop, Steam, and the Epic Games Store. This means it is no longer available for purchase digitally. While existing owners can still play the game, new players can only access it through an EA Play subscription or by purchasing a physical copy if they can find one. This move, made less than a year after its initial release, marks a significant shift in the gaming landscape, driven primarily by the end of the partnership between EA and FIFA.
The End of an Era: EA and FIFA Part Ways
For nearly three decades, the names EA and FIFA were synonymous with virtual football. The partnership delivered yearly installments that dominated the sports gaming market. However, the relationship fractured, largely due to disagreements over licensing fees and the scope of the game’s features. EA felt the constraints imposed by FIFA were stifling innovation and hindering their ability to expand the game beyond traditional football simulations. FIFA, on the other hand, sought a more lucrative deal.
This parting of ways resulted in EA rebranding its football franchise as EA Sports FC. This new era began with EA Sports FC 24, which launched shortly after FIFA 23’s delisting. The move signaled a bold step for EA, allowing them greater creative control and the freedom to explore new features without FIFA’s oversight.
Why Was FIFA 23 Delisted? The Licensing Dilemma
The primary reason for the delisting is the expiration of the EA and FIFA licensing agreement. Once this agreement ended, EA no longer had the rights to sell a game bearing the FIFA name. Delisting FIFA 23 was a necessary step to comply with the terms of the agreement and to clear the way for the launch of EA Sports FC 24.
While the delisting might seem abrupt, it’s a standard practice in the gaming industry when licensing agreements expire. Games that rely on licensed content, such as sports games with team and player names, often face similar fates once the licenses are no longer valid.
What Does This Mean for Players?
The delisting of FIFA 23 has several implications for players:
- No New Digital Purchases: New players can no longer purchase FIFA 23 digitally. The only way to access the game is through EA Play or by finding a used physical copy.
- Continued Access for Existing Owners: If you already own FIFA 23, you can continue to play it both online and offline. The game servers remain active, allowing for online matches and Ultimate Team gameplay.
- Focus on EA Sports FC 24: EA’s full attention is now directed towards EA Sports FC 24. This means no further updates or content will be released for FIFA 23.
- Resale Market: Physical copies of FIFA 23 may see a surge in value on the resale market as they become increasingly rare.
- EA Play as an Alternative: EA Play subscribers can still access FIFA 23 as part of their subscription, providing a viable option for those who missed out on purchasing the game outright.
The Future of Football Gaming
The split between EA and FIFA has opened up new possibilities for the future of football gaming. EA is now free to innovate and experiment with new features in EA Sports FC, while FIFA has expressed its intention to develop its own line of football games. This competition could lead to a more diverse and exciting landscape for football gaming enthusiasts.
Whether FIFA’s future games can compete with EA’s established franchise remains to be seen. However, the departure of EA has created a void in the market, and other developers may step in to fill it. This competition will be a massive deal for Games Learning Society and other game development institutions as they will need to keep up with the latest trends to better prepare aspiring developers.
FIFA 23 Delisted: FAQs
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide further clarification:
Is FIFA 23 removed from the store?
Yes, FIFA 23 has been removed from all digital storefronts, including PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Nintendo eShop, Steam, and Epic Games Store.
Is FIFA 23 no longer available?
The titles, up to and including FIFA 23, are no longer available for purchase digitally. You can only access FIFA 23 through EA Play or by purchasing a physical copy if available.
Is FIFA 23 being removed from PSN?
Yes, EA Sports has delisted FIFA 23 from the PlayStation Store, as well as other online storefronts.
Is FIFA 23 still playable?
Yes, if you already own FIFA 23, you can still play it both online and offline. The servers are still active.
Why did EA remove FIFA 23?
FIFA 23 was likely removed due to the expiration of the EA and FIFA licensing deal. EA no longer has the rights to sell a game with the FIFA name.
Why is FIFA no longer called FIFA?
EA decided that the cost of renewing the FIFA license wasn’t worth the restrictions it placed on the game’s development and declined to renew it.
Why can I not play FIFA 23 on PS5?
If you purchased the standard edition of FIFA 23 on PS4, you need to purchase the PS5 version separately to play it on PS5, as Dual Entitlement is only available with the Ultimate Edition.
Do I have to buy FIFA 23 again?
If you want to play FIFA 23 on a different platform (e.g., you owned it on PS4 and now want to play it on PC), you will need to purchase it again for that platform.
Why is FIFA 23 locked on PS4?
A lock icon on a PS4 game usually indicates a license issue. If you are using a secondary PS4, you need an active internet connection to validate the license.
Will FIFA 24 happen?
No, the next game is called EA Sports FC 24, due to the end of the EA and FIFA partnership.
Is FIFA 24 coming out?
EA Sports FC 24 was released on September 29, 2023, with early access available for those who pre-ordered the Ultimate Edition or had an EA Play subscription.
Why did FIFA change its name?
The name change is due to EA stepping away from the FIFA license following disagreements over licensing costs and creative control.
Why is my FIFA 23 player banned?
Players can be banned for various reasons, including cheating, win trading, account sharing, using insults in chat, payment problems, and buying or selling FUT Coins.
Will FIFA 24 be on PS4?
Yes, EA Sports FC 24 is available on PS4, as well as PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One.
What will happen to FIFA 23 after EA FC 24?
FIFA 23 will no longer receive updates or new content after the release of EA Sports FC 24. EA’s focus will shift entirely to the new game.
The delisting of FIFA 23 marks the end of an era. While existing players can still enjoy the game, the transition to EA Sports FC represents a new chapter for football gaming. Only time will tell what the future holds. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more information on games, learning, and the latest trends in the gaming industry.
This transition may create job opportunities for skilled game developers and educators.