After parting ways with EA Sports, FIFA, the governing body of football, has surprised everyone with their new esports partner: Rocket League! This popular game features cars playing football, a far cry from the realistic simulations fans might be expecting. But hey, it's a start! Sixteen countries will be represented in the upcoming Rocket League competition, with details like dates and teams still up in the air. FIFA is even asking fans to help choose which countries will participate in this esports World Cup.
This is a major shift for FIFA's esports scene. While they claim it shows their commitment to growing esports for football, some fans might be bewildered. After all, Rocket League isn't real football, and it lacks the depth of the FIFA games made by EA Sports.
Pic Courtesy: Rocket League
Remember that break-up with EA? Here's the catch: FIFA's license mainly grants them the rights to use their name and logos, including those for big events like the World Cup. However, the features that truly make these games immersive, like specific leagues and teams, are licensed separately. So, EA Sports can create their own football game (now called EA Sports FC) without needing FIFA's permission.
This highlights a challenge for any competitor. Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer (now eFootball) struggled because it lacked the licensing muscle of EA's FIFA series. Building a truly complete football video game requires more than just FIFA's name.
So, what does this mean for the future? It's unclear. While the Rocket League partnership is interesting, it's not a traditional football experience. Rumors suggest FIFA might partner with 2K Sports, known for the NBA 2K series, but what that game would look like is anyone's guess.
One thing's for sure: The world of football video games is in flux. FIFA is looking for new ways to stay involved in esports, but it remains to be seen if they can recapture the magic of their past games without key licenses. In the meantime, get ready to see some virtual cars battling it out for football glory!