FIFA 23 marks the end of an era. Released in September 2022, it is the final game in the long-running football franchise to bear the “FIFA” name, as EA and the global football federation part ways. As the 30th installment in EA Sports’ iconic series, FIFA 23 aims to deliver the most authentic, refined, and expansive football experience to date. With the introduction of HyperMotion2 technology, women's club football, and new gameplay mechanics, it offers a mix of evolution and nostalgia. The game launched on multiple platforms, including next-gen consoles, and bridges classic FIFA elements with fresh innovations.
1 End of the FIFA Era and Rebranding Ahead
FIFA 23 closes the chapter on EA Sports’ partnership with FIFA, with future titles continuing under the name “EA SPORTS FC.” This historical context elevates FIFA 23’s importance. Players anticipated both a celebration and culmination of everything the franchise represents. EA aimed to go out with a bang, packing in content, polishing gameplay, and pushing boundaries with crossplay, enhanced presentation, and global inclusivity across men's and women’s football.
2 HyperMotion2 Technology and Visual Improvements
FIFA 23 builds upon the HyperMotion engine introduced in FIFA 22, now with HyperMotion2 for next-gen systems. Using real-life motion capture and machine learning from two full matches, player movements are more fluid, responsive, and realistic. Players sprint, turn, and tackle more naturally. Animations such as first touches, celebrations, and defensive blocks have been improved significantly. Stadium atmosphere, lighting, and pitch degradation further immerse players in televised match quality.
3 Gameplay Refinements and Realism
FIFA 23 introduces new mechanics like Power Shots, Hard Tackles, and advanced dribbling responsiveness. Power Shots offer high-risk, high-reward strikes with unique animations and accuracy scaling. Defensive AI has been enhanced to provide more realistic positioning and interceptions. The pace of gameplay is slightly slower and more tactical, favoring build-up play over arcade-like speed. Player personalities affect movement and reactions, especially among superstars like Mbappé, Messi, and De Bruyne.
4 Career Mode Evolves with Personality and Depth
Career Mode receives its most substantial update in years. Player Career now includes the “Personality” system, which allows choices on and off the pitch to affect growth style—Maverick, Virtuoso, or Heartbeat. Manager Career adds a transfer analyst and dynamic moments like trophy celebrations and player interactions. Though not as revolutionary as some hoped, these additions help modernize the experience. Players can also manage real-world coaches like Pep Guardiola for the first time.
5 Ultimate Team and FUT Moments
FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT), the franchise’s most popular mode, sees several changes in FIFA 23. Position modifiers are streamlined, chemistry is reworked with a new diamond-based system, and “FUT Moments” allow quick solo challenges for rewards. The addition of World Cup content during the seasonal window was a huge draw, offering unique cards, game modes, and themed objectives. However, pack-based monetization remains controversial despite added options for grind-based progression.
6 Introduction of Women’s Club Football
For the first time in the series, FIFA 23 includes women's club teams from the Barclays FA Women’s Super League and Division 1 Arkema in France. This is a major step forward in gender representation. Female players now have unique animations via HyperMotion2 and receive equal visual fidelity. The inclusion of women in Career Mode and Ultimate Team remains limited, but EA confirmed that more integration is planned for future titles.
7 Online Play and Crossplay Support
FIFA 23 introduces full crossplay between PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC players in 1v1 modes including Online Seasons, FUT Rivals, and FUT Champions. This significantly improves matchmaking quality and accessibility. Crossplay is not available for Pro Clubs, which disappointed that mode’s loyal fanbase. Stability and server improvements are generally consistent, though latency issues still occur during peak hours.
8 Volta Football and Arcade Appeal
Volta Football returns with improved mechanics and street-style flair. Players can customize avatars, participate in short-sided matches, and enjoy “Volta Arcade,” a collection of minigames that bring casual fun to the mix. While Volta isn’t the main draw of FIFA 23, it serves as a great palette cleanser from competitive FUT or Career matches. It also shares progression with Pro Clubs for cosmetics and gear.
9 Pro Clubs and Community Engagement
Pro Clubs receives small but welcome changes, such as shared progression with Volta and deeper customization for players and kits. However, the community has voiced disappointment over EA’s lack of innovation in this mode. Fans wanted more control over team management, improved matchmaking, and deeper seasonal content. Pro Clubs remains fun but stagnant compared to FIFA’s other evolving modes.
10 Presentation, Soundtrack, and Licensing
FIFA 23 continues to dominate in terms of official licenses with over 19,000 players, 700+ clubs, and 100 stadiums. The addition of the World Cup tournaments for both men and women added timely relevance. Commentary teams are updated with more natural conversations and language localization. The soundtrack is once again stellar, featuring global hits from artists like Bad Bunny, ROSALÍA, and Jack Harlow. The visual and audio presentation remains top-tier, rivaling live TV broadcasts.
Conclusion A Polished Farewell to FIFA Branding
FIFA 23 succeeds as a farewell tribute to the brand. With improved gameplay, updated visuals, and deeper game modes, it represents a refined version of what FIFA has long aimed to be—a global football simulation accessible to everyone. While issues like monetization, Pro Clubs stagnation, and some half-hearted innovations remain, the core game is solid, exciting, and packed with content. As the final “FIFA,” it honors the legacy while passing the torch to EA SPORTS FC with momentum and ambition.
Final Rating 4.3 out of 5
