(Football news) Video game publisher Electronic Arts have announced that they will not be making ‘FIFA’ branded football games anymore. EA and FIFA have been in a partnership since 1993 and while the game will no longer have the football governing body’s name in it, it will still be similar in terms of gameplay mechanics and core modes of play as compared to the recent iterations. There will be one final ‘FIFA’ release, this year’s edition of FIFA 23, which will be released later this year. The last licensing deal between the two parties was signed in 2013 but since then, FIFA has increased the price of renewal to more than $1billion dollars per four-year world cup cycle.

In a statement on the website, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said “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. The FIFA name is the only global, original title. FIFA 23, FIFA 24, FIFA 25 and FIFA 26, and so on – the constant is the FIFA name and it will remain forever and remain THE BEST. The interactive gaming and esports sector is on a path of unrivalled growth and diversification. FIFA’s strategy is to ensure we can make the most of all future options and ensure a wide range of products and opportunities for gamers, fans, member associations and partners.”

In recent years, Electronic Arts has faced backlash from the fans over its approach towards in-game purchases and it remains to be seen if the game publisher makes changes to ‘EA Sports FC’ when it launches next year. It will undoubtedly be important for EA to ensure that the huge player base from FIFA games accept EA Sports FC as a viable alternative as the revenue is the only way the game publisher can ensure it can continue the licences for 19,000 athletes, 700 teams, 100 stadiums and over 30 leagues for future games. 

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