In the world of video games, few partnerships have been as iconic and enduring as the one between EA Sports and FIFA. For nearly three decades, this collaboration brought the thrill of football (or soccer, depending on where you’re from) to millions of gamers worldwide, turning virtual pitches into battlegrounds for glory. But like any long-term relationship, it eventually hit a breaking point. If you’ve been wondering why your favorite game series suddenly rebranded and what it means for the future of football gaming, you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive article, we’ll dive deep into the history, the drama, the reasons, and the aftermath—with a human touch, because behind the corporate decisions are passionate fans, developers, and players who live and breathe the beautiful game. Let’s unpack it all, step by step.
The Storied History of the FIFA Franchise
The FIFA video game series kicked off in 1993 with FIFA International Soccer, a groundbreaking title released for the Sega Mega Drive. It was the first game to secure an official license from FIFA, the global governing body of football, allowing it to feature national teams—though player names were fictional back then. This isometric-view gem set the stage for what would become one of the best-selling sports franchises ever.
Over the years, the series evolved dramatically. FIFA 95 introduced club teams from major leagues, while FIFA 96 brought real-time 3D graphics and authentic player names via the FIFPro license. By FIFA 97, we saw polygonal players and an indoor mode, and FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 delivered a full World Cup experience with improved AI and licensed soundtracks. The franchise’s sales exploded: by 2000, it had moved over 16 million units, and by 2010, that number surpassed 100 million. Innovations kept coming—female national teams in FIFA 16 (2015), the Frostbite engine in FIFA 17 (2016), and street-style Volta Football in FIFA 20 (2019).
At its peak, the series sold over 325 million copies by 2021, outpacing rivals like Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer (now eFootball) through superior licensing, modes like Ultimate Team, and annual releases tied to real-world tournaments. It wasn’t just a game; it was a cultural phenomenon, blending esports, celebrity endorsements, and global fan communities.
The Partnership That Defined Football Gaming
EA Sports and FIFA’s alliance began in the early ’90s, with EA securing rights to use the FIFA brand, which lent unparalleled authenticity. This deal allowed EA to incorporate official tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and more. In return, FIFA received substantial licensing fees—around $150 million annually by the late 2010s—and massive exposure.
The partnership was a win-win: EA built a blockbuster franchise, while FIFA boosted its brand among younger audiences. Spin-offs for World Cups and European Championships added variety, and modes like Career and Ultimate Team kept players hooked year-round. But as the gaming industry shifted toward digital economies, live services, and NFTs, tensions brewed beneath the surface.
Cracks in the Foundation: Signs of Trouble
By the early 2020s, whispers of discord emerged. FIFA, under president Gianni Infantino, sought to expand its revenue streams amid financial pressures. Reports indicated FIFA demanded a doubling of its licensing fee—to about $300 million per year, or $1 billion every four years—to reflect the franchise’s massive success.
EA, on the other hand, wanted more flexibility. The company eyed growth in esports, digital content, and emerging tech like blockchain and NFTs, but felt restricted by FIFA’s exclusivity clauses. EA already held direct licenses with over 300 leagues, 19,000 players, and 700 teams—assets it could retain without the FIFA name. These negotiations dragged on, with a temporary extension until 2022, but the writing was on the wall.
The Official Breakup
On May 10, 2022, the bombshell dropped: EA and FIFA announced the end of their 30-year partnership after FIFA 23, set for release that September. EA’s statement was optimistic, promising continuity under a new banner, while FIFA vowed to create its own «authentic» games.
FIFA 23 became a swan song, featuring cross-play, women’s leagues, and World Cup modes. It sold millions, but fans mourned the end of an era—much like saying goodbye to a childhood friend who’s moving away.
Reasons Behind the Split
At its core, the breakup was about money and control. FIFA’s fee hike was a non-starter for EA, who argued the FIFA brand’s value didn’t justify the cost, especially since EA’s direct deals covered most authentic elements. FIFA wanted to limit EA’s expansions into non-simulation areas, fearing dilution of its brand.
Broader industry trends played a role: the rise of free-to-play models, microtransactions, and competition from games like eFootball. EA saw the split as a chance to innovate freely, while FIFA aimed to diversify partners for better deals. It wasn’t acrimonious, but practical—two giants outgrowing each other.
EA Sports’ New Era: Welcome to EA Sports FC
Post-split, EA rebranded to EA Sports FC, launching EA Sports FC 24 in September 2023. It retained all the core licenses, ensuring the game felt familiar: Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, and more were exclusive. Features like Ultimate Team and Career Mode evolved, with new tech like HyperMotionV for realistic animations.
By 2024, EA Sports FC 25 hit shelves, emphasizing tactical depth, club management, and social features. However, it faced criticism for bugs and gameplay issues, leading EA to cut its 2025 bookings forecast due to underperformance. Despite hiccups, the series remains a juggernaut, proving the gameplay—not the name—drives success. For more on the latest patches, check EA’s official news page.
FIFA’s Path Forward
FIFA didn’t sit idle. President Infantino promised «FIFA 24, FIFA 25, and beyond» as the «best» games. But progress has been slow. In October 2024, FIFA partnered with Konami for esports via eFootball, hosting FIFAe World Cups on console and mobile. This partnership strengthened in July 2025, focusing on global tournaments.
On the gaming front, FIFA teamed with Mythical Games for FIFA Rivals, a mobile arcade title set for summer 2025, emphasizing player-vs-player and lineup building. Rumors swirl about a 2K Games collaboration for a full FIFA 2K25, but nothing’s confirmed—though leaks suggest a 2025 launch. FIFA’s strategy seems geared toward multiple partners, avoiding over-reliance on one developer.
Impact on Gamers, Esports, and the Industry
For gamers, the split means more choice—potentially. EA Sports FC keeps the simulation crown, but FIFA’s entries could shake things up with fresh takes. Esports shifted: EA built its own infrastructure, while FIFA’s Konami tie-up revives competition.
Industry-wide, it highlights licensing’s power. Fans worry about fragmentation, but optimists see innovation. As one Reddit user put it, «Same game, different name»—and that’s largely held true. The beautiful game endures, virtual or not.
Latest Updates as of August 2025
As of mid-2025, EA Sports FC 25 is navigating rough waters with player complaints about glitches, but summer updates promise fixes. FIFA’s Rivals mobile game is on track, and esports thrive with Konami. Watch for 2K announcements—could this be the year FIFA strikes back? Stay tuned via FIFA’s official site or EA’s FC hub.
In the end, the EA-FIFA split reminds us that even giants evolve. What started as a pixelated dream in 1993 has grown into a multi-billion-dollar ecosystem. Whether you’re grinding Ultimate Team or awaiting FIFA’s comeback, the passion for football gaming burns brighter than ever. What’s your take—team EA or hopeful for FIFA’s revival? Share in the comments!