FIFA fans, you might want to grab the tissues and put the controller down, because there won’t be FIFA video games anymore
Soccer’s global governing body and EA Sports are ending a partnership that created FIFA, which is one of the most popular video games of all time.
The game has generated more than $20 billion in sales over the past two decades.
But the cost of the licence was one reason why the decision was made to ditch the partnership.
150 million FIFA video game players will now have to get used to a new name
EA will continue to make football video games, but from next year, they will come under a new banner, so get use to the name EA Sports FC.
FIFA plansto release its own rival games, saying: “The Fifa name is the only global, original title.”
In a long statement on its website, Fifa says it will launch new football video games developed with a range of third-party studios and publishers.
As well as launching new games during 2022 and 2023, Fifa says it is working with leading game publishers, media companies and investors to develop of a major new Fifa simulation game title in 2024.
“I can assure you that the only authentic, real game that has the Fifa name will be the best one available for gamers and football fans.”
Gianni Infantino, the President of Fifa says in the statement
“The constant is the Fifa name and it will remain forever and remain the best.”
EA say they will continue to offer real-world experiences, having signed up thousands of athletes, 700 teams, 100 stadiums and over 30 leagues for future games.
They include the Premier League and UEFA.
EA Sports FC will hit the shelves in late 2023.
