Will FIFA 22 Be Free on Xbox Game Pass? Unlocking the Beautiful Game
Yes, FIFA 22 eventually became available on Xbox Game Pass. However, the availability depended on your subscription tier. While not immediately free upon release, it eventually joined the EA Play library, which is included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. This means that subscribers to those tiers could download and play FIFA 22 at no extra cost. Basic Xbox Game Pass subscribers, who do not have EA Play included, did not receive FIFA 22. Understanding the intricacies of these subscriptions is crucial to accessing games like FIFA 22 without an additional purchase.
Understanding the EA Play and Xbox Game Pass Relationship
The Symbiotic Partnership
The key to understanding FIFA 22’s availability lies in the partnership between EA Play and Xbox Game Pass. EA Play is a subscription service from Electronic Arts that offers access to a library of EA games, early trials of new releases, and discounts on EA digital purchases. Microsoft strategically bundled EA Play into its premium Xbox Game Pass tiers, specifically Ultimate and PC Game Pass, providing subscribers with a greater value proposition.
How it Works
When a game like FIFA 22 is added to the EA Play library, it automatically becomes accessible to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers. They can simply download the game through the Xbox app on console or the EA app on PC and start playing. Basic Xbox Game Pass subscribers, who do not receive EA Play, will not have access to FIFA 22 through their subscription. They would need to purchase the game separately.
The Timing Matters
While FIFA 22 eventually made its way to EA Play, it wasn’t available immediately upon release. Typically, EA adds its older titles to EA Play several months after their initial launch to continue driving sales of newer games. Therefore, patience was required for those hoping to access FIFA 22 through Game Pass. The addition of titles is usually well-publicized by both Microsoft and Electronic Arts. Stay updated by following the updates on Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org.
Benefits of Playing FIFA 22 Through Game Pass
Cost Savings
The most obvious benefit is the cost savings. Instead of purchasing FIFA 22 outright, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can access it as part of their existing subscription. This is especially advantageous for players who enjoy a variety of games and are already subscribed to Game Pass. The subscription model provides far greater value for money.
Variety of Games
Xbox Game Pass offers a diverse library of games across various genres. Accessing FIFA 22 through Game Pass is an added bonus on top of the already vast selection of titles available. This allows players to explore different games and genres without having to purchase each one individually.
Early Access and Trials
EA Play also provides access to early trials of new EA games, allowing subscribers to try out titles before their official release. While this benefit wasn’t relevant for FIFA 22 after its release, it remains a valuable perk of the EA Play subscription moving forward. The trial can determine whether a player is willing to invest in a purchase of a new game.
The Convenience Factor
Subscribing to Xbox Game Pass provides a simple and convenient way to access FIFA 22. Once the game is added to the EA Play library, it becomes readily available for download and play. There is no need to purchase physical copies or digital downloads separately.
The Evolution of FIFA to EA Sports FC
End of an Era
The world has changed for FIFA video game series. Notably, EA (Electronic Arts) lost its license to continue producing the game as FIFA. The split was largely down to money, with FIFA wanting to charge EA $1 billion every four years for the usage of its license. The parties failed to come to terms, thus ending the legacy of the FIFA branded video game.
The Beginning of EA Sports FC
As a result, EA Sports’ new soccer game is now referred to as EA Sports FC. The game still provides a simulation experience of the popular soccer sport. The core gameplay remained similar, but the name change reflected the new era without the FIFA license.
Subscription Models Remain
Despite the name change, EA Sports FC will likely continue to be offered through EA Play and Xbox Game Pass, maintaining the subscription model that allowed players to access FIFA 22 through Game Pass. Expect that the pricing structures to be quite similiar as well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About FIFA and Xbox Game Pass
1. What Xbox Game Pass subscriptions include EA Play?
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass include EA Play. Basic Xbox Game Pass does not.
2. When did FIFA 22 become available on EA Play?
FIFA 22 was added to EA Play several months after its initial release date in September 2021. The specific date varied, but it generally became available in the spring of 2022.
3. Is FIFA 23 on Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, FIFA 23 is on Xbox Game Pass. Specifically, it’s available through EA Play, which is included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
4. Can I play FIFA 22 on PC with Xbox Game Pass?
Yes, but only if you have PC Game Pass or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. These subscriptions include EA Play for PC, allowing you to download and play FIFA 22 through the EA app.
5. Do I need Xbox Live Gold to play FIFA 22 online with Game Pass?
Yes, Xbox Live Gold (now simply Xbox Game Pass for Console or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate) is required to play FIFA 22 online, even if you access the game through Xbox Game Pass. You will need to access the subscription and verify that you can connect with other players in the game.
6. How long can I play FIFA 22 for free with EA Play?
There is no time limit to play the game, but EA provides a 10-hour trial period for the game prior to its release to members of EA Play. You can access the games as long as the game is in the EA Play library.
7. Will EA Sports FC be free on Xbox Game Pass?
Similar to previous FIFA titles, EA Sports FC will likely be added to EA Play several months after its release, making it accessible to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers.
8. Is FIFA 23 cheaper with Xbox Game Pass?
You can actually get a much bigger reduction through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The Xbox Store prices FIFA 23 on the Xbox One version and Xbox Series X|S for a reduction.
9. What other EA games are included with EA Play on Xbox Game Pass?
The EA Play library includes a variety of EA games, such as Madden NFL, NHL, Battlefield, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, and many more.
10. How do I download FIFA 22 with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?
You must download from either the Xbox app on console or the EA app on PC. Go to the EA Play section and select FIFA 22. Then, click “Download” and follow the prompts.
11. What happens when FIFA 22 leaves EA Play?
If FIFA 22 is removed from the EA Play library, it will no longer be accessible through Xbox Game Pass. You would then need to purchase the game separately to continue playing.
12. Is there a discount for buying FIFA 22 if I’m an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriber?
Yes, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers receive a 10% discount on digital EA purchases, including FIFA 22, if they choose to buy the game.
13. Can I play FIFA 22 on multiple devices with Xbox Game Pass?
With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can play FIFA 22 on your Xbox console and on a PC (if you have PC Game Pass). However, you cannot play on both devices simultaneously with the same account.
14. What are the advantages of EA Play Pro over regular EA Play?
EA Play Pro provides access to newer EA titles, premium editions, and additional in-game content compared to regular EA Play. However, EA Play Pro is only available on PC.
15. How often does EA add games to the EA Play library?
EA adds games to the EA Play library periodically throughout the year. The timing varies depending on the game and its release date.