For more than a decade now, Electronic Arts & FIFA have worked hand-in-hand on shipping a new annual release for the titular EA Sports games. However, 2023 was to change the formula as FIFA would move on from Electronic Arts. Instead, the series would now be recognized as EA Sports FC moving forward. But, that is not to say this limits the games that fans across the globe know the series for.
In fact, there is more than what FIFA originally had to offer. For the first time, the new futbol simulator offers integrated matches as users can now have unisex games from different leagues come together. Additionally, it also marks the first for Electronic Arts to feature full-on cross-platform play between all supported platforms too.
However, it appears that Electronic Arts is undoing its previous work ahead of the release for EA Sports FC 24 – at least, that is what’s speculated. Currently, there is no word on why the publisher decided to delist its titles online which leaves players to conjure up their own conspiracies. Even for titles like FIFA 23, the Steam version reads: “At the request of the publisher, EA SPORTS™ FIFA 23 is unlisted on the Steam store and will not appear in search.”
It is also reported this affects titles dating back to FIFA 14. Noted, the last two entries – FIFA 22 & FIFA 23 – are still available to access for EA Play/Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. Although outlets such as Kotaku has reached out to contact Electronic Arts on the matter, the firm has not responded for comment.
Of course, this does not subtract the game from existence entirely. Users that own these games digitally can still reinstall said titles. And those with a physical copy are still in a good position. Even more, you can purchase a hard copy online or at most retailers for select releases as well. It is left unclear if this decision will be permanent or only a temporary change.
What is your take on the recent decision from EA?
