If you’re a football video game enthusiast hoping to snag a discounted copy of FIFA 23 on digital platforms like Steam after the release of EA FC 24, you might be in for some disappointment. Effective September 26, EA Sports has removed all previous FIFA titles that were available for purchase in digital game stores. With the global launch of EA FC 24 on September 29, FIFA 23 will no longer be an option for those who haven’t already acquired it.
Fans began to notice this change when they couldn’t locate older FIFA titles in the store. This marks a significant departure from EA Sports’ previous approach to managing its football game lineup. In the past, older FIFA titles remained available for purchase even after the release of a new edition. For instance, FIFA 22 was still on sale when FIFA 23 launched in September 2022. However, this practice has come to an end with the introduction of EA FC 24 and the future direction of the series.
The sudden removal of FIFA 23 from digital stores has caught a portion of the gaming community off guard, as EA Sports had not made any prior announcements about such a move. The reason behind this decision is relatively straightforward. Earlier in 2023, negotiations between EA Sports and FIFA hit an impasse during talks to renegotiate their terms. Consequently, EA Sports can no longer use the FIFA name with any of its products in the foreseeable future.
This is the primary reason why the successor to FIFA 23 is titled EA FC 24. The FIFA branding has been entirely removed, and even certain aspects of the Moments game mode have been given altered names to sidestep licensing issues. Consequently, it’s highly likely that EA Sports will also remove games bearing the FIFA name from other platform stores.
For players who already possess a copy of FIFA 23, there’s some good news. They will still have access to their game, as the servers are expected to remain operational. Players can continue to enjoy both online and offline content. However, it’s important to note that there will be no official support, new content, or updates provided for FIFA 23 from this point onward. All of EA Sports’ support efforts will be directed toward EA FC 24 and its associated game modes.
FAQ
What has EA Sports done with FIFA 23 ahead of the release of EA FC 24?
EA Sports has quietly removed FIFA 23 from digital game stores, making it unavailable for purchase.
Is FIFA 23 still accessible to players who already own it?
Yes, players who already own FIFA 23 will still be able to access and play the game. The servers are expected to remain operational.
Why did EA Sports remove FIFA 23 from digital stores?
The removal of FIFA 23 from digital stores is a result of failed negotiations between EA Sports and FIFA regarding the usage of the FIFA name in their products.
What is the title of the successor to FIFA 23?
The successor to FIFA 23 is titled EA FC 24. The FIFA branding has been completely removed.
Will EA Sports continue to support FIFA 23 with updates and new content?
No, EA Sports will no longer provide official support, updates, or new content for FIFA 23. Their focus will shift to EA FC 24 and its associated game modes.
Why did talks between EA Sports and FIFA break down in 2023?
Talks between EA Sports and FIFA reached an impasse during negotiations regarding the terms of their agreement, leading to the removal of the FIFA branding from EA Sports products.
Can players still enjoy FIFA 23 both online and offline?
Yes, players who own FIFA 23 can continue to enjoy both online and offline content in the game.
What changes have been made to FIFA 23’s Moments game mode due to licensing issues?
To avoid licensing issues, certain aspects of the Moments game mode in FIFA 23 have been given altered names.
Are there any plans to reintroduce FIFA 23 in the future?
There have been no announcements regarding the reintroduction of FIFA 23 to digital stores at this time.
Will other platform stores also remove FIFA games with the FIFA branding?
It is highly likely that other platform stores will also remove games bearing the FIFA name, following the same practice as EA Sports.