FIFA

Overview Places & Experiences Collectibles Characters Weapons & Gear Media

The world's most popular football simulation video game series, featuring authentic teams, players, and stadiums from around the globe.

Official Website

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IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.

Full Name

FIFA Football Video Game Series

Also Known As

FIFA Soccer, EA Sports FIFA, FIFA Football

Format

Sports Simulation Video Game Series

Release Year

1993

Current Status

Active (now EA Sports FC)

Country of Origin

United States

Creator

EA Sports

Publisher

Electronic Arts

Original Work

Video Game

Genre

Sports Simulation, Football/Soccer, Multiplayer, Competitive

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape FIFA.

Story

High-level synopsis and narrative focus.

Annual football simulation game featuring authentic teams, players, and leagues from around the world, offering various game modes from career to ultimate team.

World

Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.

Football stadiums and training facilities worldwide

Themes

Core ideas and recurring motifs.

Competition, teamwork, skill development, global football culture

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing FIFA's global influence.

1993

FIFA International Soccer launches, establishing the franchise

1997

FIFA 98 introduces 3D graphics and improved gameplay

2009

FIFA Ultimate Team mode launches, revolutionizing the series

2016

The Journey story mode introduces Alex Hunter

2020

FIFA becomes the best-selling sports game franchise

2023

Final FIFA-branded game released

2024

EA Sports FC launches as the successor series

Sales

Over 325 million copies sold across all FIFA titles

Revenue

Multi-billion dollar franchise, significant Ultimate Team revenue

Awards

Multiple sports game of the year awards

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from FIFA.

Lionel Messi

“I always try to give my best for the team and for football.”

Legendary Argentine playmaker known for his dribbling, vision, and record-breaking career.View Profile

Cristiano Ronaldo

“I am the best player in history, in the good and the bad moments.”

Portuguese icon renowned for his athleticism, goal-scoring prowess, and dedication.View Profile

Kylian Mbappe

“I want to make history, not just be part of it.”

French superstar celebrated for his explosive speed and clinical finishing.View Profile

Alex Hunter

“This is my journey, and I'm going to make it count.”

The fictional protagonist of "The Journey", rising from academy hopeful to global star.View Profile

Gareth Walker

“You think you can just walk in here and take my spot? Think again, kid.”

Alex Hunter’s childhood friend turned fierce rival in the professional league.View Profile

Explore all FIFA characters

Frequently Asked Questions

What is FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT)?▼

FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) is the most popular mode in the series, allowing players to build their dream squad using collectible player cards. Gamers can earn or buy packs, trade players on a transfer market, and compete in online tournaments and leagues to earn rewards.

Why did the game name change from FIFA to EA Sports FC?▼

After a 30-year partnership, Electronic Arts and FIFA (the governing body) ended their licensing agreement in 2022. As a result, starting with the 2023 release (EA Sports FC 24), the game was rebranded. However, EA retained separate licenses with leagues and clubs, keeping real team names and players.

Does the game support cross-play?▼

Yes, recent entries like FIFA 23 and EA Sports FC 24 support cross-play functionality. This allows players on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC to play against each other. Older generation consoles (PS4, Xbox One) can also play together in their own pool.

What is Career Mode?▼

Career Mode is a single-player simulation where you can take on the role of a Manager or a Player. As a manager, you control tactics, transfers, and training to lead a club to glory. As a player, you focus on your own athlete's development and performance on the pitch.

Are women's teams available in the game?▼

Yes, the series has progressively integrated women's football. Recent titles include major women's leagues (like the WSL and NWSL) and the Women's World Cup. EA Sports FC 24 also introduced female players into Ultimate Team, allowing for mixed-gender squads.

How often is the game released?▼

The game follows an annual release cycle, typically launching in late September or early October each year. This schedule aligns with the start of major European football seasons, ensuring squads and kits are up to date.

What are FIFA Points?▼

FIFA Points (now FC Points) are a premium virtual currency that can be purchased with real money. They are primarily used to open packs in Ultimate Team mode or enter the Draft mode, offering a shortcut to obtaining players compared to grinding for free currency.

Who are the highest-rated players usually?▼

Historically, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominated the top ratings for over a decade. In the new era (FC 24 onwards), stars like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Alexia Putellas are typically among the highest-rated cards.

Does the game have real licenses for all teams?▼

EA Sports holds the most extensive portfolio of licenses in football gaming, including the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League, and CONMEBOL Libertadores. However, some specific clubs (like certain Italian teams) may be generic due to exclusive deals with rival games.

Is there a competitive esports scene?▼

Yes, the franchise has a massive esports scene, culminating in the FIFAe World Cup (now FC Pro World Championship). Professional players compete individually or representing clubs for significant prize pools, with qualifiers held throughout the season.