FIFA Infinity The Absolute FIFA Site
The beautiful game is more than just a sport; it’s a universal language that unites people from all four corners of the globe. As football continues to capture the hearts of millions in the UK and worldwide, its impact on the sports gaming industry is more profound than ever.
Evolution of football video games
The original football games are barely recognisable when compared to the latest releases. Early titles like FIFA International Soccer and Sensible Soccer offered a basic experience centred around fairly limited gameplay mechanics and graphical capabilities.
As gaming technology has advanced, so has the sophistication of these games. The modern FIFA titles (now EA Sports FC) have become advanced, intricate simulations of the sport, complete with hyper-realistic graphics and enhanced player representation.
Fans can now experience life on the pitch, manage from the touchlines and see the beautiful game through the eyes of their favourite players.
Player ratings and real-world performance
Connections between real-life and in-game performances have brought about a closer synthesis between the football and gaming worlds.
Ratings standardise player abilities in various attributes such as speed, dribbling and passing. These are updated between titles and regularly during the season to reflect the real-world performances of players, adding a layer of authenticity and relevance to the player experience.
For example, players like Liverpool’s Mo Salah and Erling Haaland saw their ratings skyrocket after prolific seasons in the Premier League. Others, who had a dip in form, saw their in-game stats take a hit.
Football culture in gaming
Football games on consoles, mobile and PC have become another outlet for the sport’s culture, giving fans a platform to share and enjoy their passion in a virtual environment.
The inclusion of authentic chants, stadiums and even commentary teams recreates the football we know and love in the real world, resonating with fans and feeding those who crave more.
Ultimate Team modes and the Football Manager game series have also tapped into collection culture and the world of fantasy football, allowing players to build and manage dream teams with their icons.
Expanding global reach and star power
The global reach of football has been a massive factor in the growth of its corresponding video games, and vice versa in many ways. As football’s popularity expands, so does the audience for these games.
Global stars like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé on game covers and in marketing campaigns help to attract a diverse, international audience. They’re no longer just athletes, they’re global icons whose influence extends far beyond the pitch.
