Why?
Despite the overwhelming success of EA Sports’ FIFA series, which has dominated the football gaming genre for three decades and sold over 325 million copies as of 2021, EA has decided to rename FIFA Online 4. This decision raises questions about the rift in the relationship between the two parties, as well as concerns about the future of the EA FC franchise. Many reports have leaked to journalists at this stage, primarily discussing the skyrocketing licensing fees for using the FIFA name, prompting EA to consider a different path.
According to a recent announcement, this name change will take place at the end of September. The decision to end the use of the FIFA brand was officially announced last year, marking the conclusion of a 30-year partnership between EA and the international football governing body.
Risk or Opportunity?
The rebranding comes with numerous risks for EA’s golden goose, but according to an EA representative, it opens a door to completely new opportunities for this football game franchise:
“With over 300 partners including leagues and clubs around the world in the king’s sport, we are ready to take the global football experience to new heights, on behalf of all football fans worldwide, a new chapter in football is about to begin”
EA SPORTS FC ONLINE retains the licenses for:
- UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League
- Premier League
- LA LIGA EA SPORTS
- Bundesliga
- Serie A TIM
- Ligue 1 UberEats
- MLS
Currently, we do not know how “opening a new door” will benefit football fans, but the core essence of this game remains intact, and players can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their beloved game (FC Online) is still being cared for by the developers.
Where will the FIFA name go?
EA Sports’ decision not to renew the contract means the FIFA name could be handed over to a new publisher, and we may see a competitive race between new developers and EA in the future.
However, this is not an easy task, as the reason why only EA SPORTS has developed football games is due to the vast number of licenses for players, leagues, and clubs. Players always seek the most authentic experiences, so having clubs and players they recognize in the game is essential. The licensing fees will be an enormous amount that only financially capable publishers can afford.
The Future of Football Gaming
With other competitors lagging behind FC Online, this game series is currently dominating the football gaming market. However, it is possible that a new competitor is ready to “learn” EA’s successful formula and build upon it, creating a completely new experience. Remember, no matter what happens, the name FIFA always carries weight and is incredibly important.
What changes can we expect for FC Online Vietnam?
As of September 22, the publisher Garena and EA Sports have officially changed the game’s name to FC Online Vietnam, along with some exciting changes for the football title that has been released in Vietnam for 5 years:
– Name change, interface redesign with new colors and patterns of FC Online
– The duo VTV Tạ Biên Cương and Nguyễn Khắc Cường will be the new commentators in FC Online
– Three new Vietnamese players: Thành Chung, Văn Khang, Văn Tùng will appear in the 23 Vietnam Best card season
– In addition, the publisher hinted at bringing unique “new and unique experiences” specifically for the Vietnamese market in the future.
These changes do not bring about a revolution or major alterations, but for Vietnamese gamers, retaining the core essence of the FIFA series is what we care about the most.
Learn more at: https://fconline.garena.vn/