Wayne Lumbasi
FIFA, one of the most popular video game franchises, will be renamed EA Sports FC after the game’s publisher, Electronic Arts Inc., failed to reach a new licensing agreement with the world soccer body.
FIFA is one of the most prominent names in sports gaming, and with EA at the helm of these titles for well over two decades, players may be shocked to hear that the partnership between these entertainment giants is coming to an end.
The media developer, who has handled production of the popular series of football games since 1993’s FIFA International Soccer, confirmed the changes would come following the release of their next edition FIFA 23, later this year. But after FIFA 23, which is due for release in September or October 2022, EA will switch things up.
The game series, among the best-selling franchises of all-time, has emerged as the dominant football genre experience under EA’s stewardship, but the company says that it is time for a fresh chapter.
It is understood that neither FIFA, run by President Gianni Infantino, nor EA Sports wanted a rebrand. But EA Sports decided to walk away after failing to agree a new branding deal with FIFA.
