FIFA 21is highly anticipated by soccer fans but it has a difficult task upon release. While theFIFA 21has the licenses to the vast majority of players and teams which has helped it become the dominant soccer franchise, it has also faced a huge amount of criticism in recent years. Some players feel thatthe career mode ofFIFAhas been disappointingand others have cited issues with the online servers. The latest game may be able to rectify previous bad press, but players will be disappointed to find out that they will not be able to enjoy online content across platforms.
The next iteration ofFIFA 21has looked to make significant changes to the franchise, which has been criticized for a lack of innovation between installments.FIFA 21is taking steps to limit toxic behaviorand it also seems to be making gameplay alterations that will get rid of some of the annoying elements that fans of the franchise will be familiar with. However, if players wish to share the new experience with friends they will have to do so on the same console.
RELATED:FIFA 21 Details Changes to Pro Clubs Mode
Through its direct communication Twitter accountFIFA 21announced that there would be no crossplay functionality of any kind in the game including generation cross-play. This means that PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 players will not be able to join the game together. This will disappoint players as it will be difficult to align with fans in terms of what console to play on and purchase. Furthermore, with the server issues that have impactedFIFAgames in the past, this decision may negatively impact the endeavors of the game to be considered a competitive esport title.
The tweet notes that the upgrade offer, which allows forFIFA 21to be changed to the next-generation version for free, will carry over the data but some fans may not want to jump to the next console if it limits who they can play with. It will be interesting to see if this decision impacts sales or whether players will be happy playing with other fans with the same console. There have already beencalls to boycottFIFA 21and while decisions like this won’t help the franchise, it is unlikely that it will significantly damage its reputation.
Many will want to see thechanges that have been made inFIFA 21, but what console players decide to pick up the title for will now need some careful deliberation if fans want to enjoy the game with fans.
FIFA 21will release on October 9th for PC, PS4, and Xbox One and is also in development for PS5, Stadia, and Xbox Series X.
