Game images by RAWG
FIFA 23 / EA Sports FC 24
EA Sports (EA Vancouver)
About This Game
Super ReviewEA Sports FC 24 delivers an authentic football simulation, perfect for passionate fans to manage teams and compete. However, its popular Ultimate Team mode relies heavily on loot-box mechanics, encouraging significant spending and a 'grind' for progress. Online interactions also carry a risk of encountering toxic behavior.
Super Review
Parent verdict
EA Sports FC 24 is a strong football simulation that deeply engages players with realistic gameplay and team management. However, its low 'Risky' health score of 27 reflects significant concerns around the Ultimate Team mode. This mode's gambling-like card packs and constant progression incentives can be highly addictive and lead to considerable unplanned spending. Parents should also be mindful of potentially toxic online interactions, making strict boundaries essential for a healthy play experience.
What players actually do
- Players control virtual football stars on the pitch, executing passes, dribbles, and shots with precise button inputs to score goals and win matches in a realistic simulation.
- Players build a 'dream team' in Ultimate Team by acquiring player cards through randomized packs, then strategically managing squad chemistry and competing in online or offline matches to earn rewards and upgrade their roster.
- Players engage in competitive online matches against others, testing their strategic formations and individual player skill in pursuit of leaderboard rankings and season rewards.
Where it shines
- The game offers an exceptionally authentic and immersive football experience with realistic player movements, detailed stadiums, and professional commentary, appealing deeply to true fans of the sport.
- Multiplayer modes encourage strategic thinking and teamwork, whether building a balanced squad in Ultimate Team or coordinating plays with friends in Pro Clubs.
Parent watch-outs
- The Ultimate Team mode features loot box-style 'packs' that contain random player cards, heavily incentivizing real-money purchases with no guarantee of desired outcomes, akin to gambling.
- Online multiplayer can expose players to unsportsmanlike conduct, including 'trash talk' through messages, abusive tactics, or even opponents quitting matches to deny wins.
Family rules worth setting
- Set clear financial limits on in-game purchases, or disable spending entirely, especially for Ultimate Team packs, to prevent unexpected costs.
- Enable console parental controls to restrict or disable online communication features like voice and text chat to limit exposure to toxic players.
Talk about this
- Discuss the difference between skill-based achievement and luck-based rewards in games, and how 'loot boxes' are designed to make players want to spend more money.
- Talk about good sportsmanship, online etiquette, and how to handle or report negative interactions with other players in competitive environments.
Play style
Matches can be quick, intense affairs lasting around 15-20 minutes, offering immediate gratification. The difficulty is scalable for casual play but mastering advanced techniques and tactics for competitive online modes requires significant dedication. Solo players can enjoy career modes, but much of the game's appeal, especially Ultimate Team, encourages social or competitive online play, where skill and team building are crucial. Some players may need help understanding complex menus or advanced strategies.
Score Breakdown
Positive Aspects
Risk Factors
Why this rating
Educational Value
1/5While the game simulates real-world football, offering an understanding of team dynamics and tactics, its core gameplay loop offers minimal direct educational benefit. The primary focus is on competition and entertainment, rather than learning.
Addictive Monetization
5/5The Ultimate Team mode heavily leverages 'surprise mechanics' (loot boxes) and constant progression systems, making it highly susceptible to addictive spending. Players are strongly incentivized to purchase randomized player packs with real money to build competitive teams.
Time Pressure / FOMO
4/5Ultimate Team's seasonal content, daily objectives, and competitive ladders create ongoing incentives to play regularly and for extended periods. This pressure to 'grind' for in-game currency and rewards can lead to significant time investment.
Negatives
- •Ultimate Team mode can be very addictive and costly (card pack gambling mechanics)
- •Online play can expose to toxic opponents (via messages)
- •Annual releases – incremental updates for full price
Positives
- •Authentic sports experience – great for soccer fans
- •Encourages strategy and teamwork in multiplayer
- •No violent content, just competitive sports play
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Official Ratings
Users Interact (online matches); In-Game Purchases (Ultimate Team loot packs)
Age Fit
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