FIFA 23

FIFA 23, developed by EA Sports, marks the final entry in the long-running collaboration between EA and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association. Released in September 2022 for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch, FIFA 23 is more than just another annual football title—it’s a farewell to a globally beloved franchise that has shaped virtual football for decades.

Packed with HyperMotion2 technology, cross-play functionality, men’s and women’s club football integration, and revamped career and Ultimate Team modes, FIFA 23 sets out to be the most complete and immersive football simulation EA has ever created.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into FIFA 23’s gameplay, new features, presentation, game modes, pros and cons, and overall verdict as the game that closes one era and makes way for a new one—EA Sports FC.

1. A Historic Goodbye to the FIFA Name

A Transition in Branding

FIFA 23 is the last game to bear the official FIFA license after EA Sports and the FIFA organization parted ways. Starting in 2023, future entries will be published under the EA Sports FC brand.

• A legacy dating back to FIFA International Soccer (1993)

• The game honors its past while embracing change for the future

• Enhanced realism, inclusivity, and gameplay variety

What This Means for Fans

FIFA 23 serves as both a conclusion and celebration, giving fans the opportunity to enjoy everything the franchise has built before the reboot.

2. Gameplay Enhancements: The Power of HyperMotion2

HyperMotion2 Explained

HyperMotion2 is the upgraded version of the motion-capture system first introduced in FIFA 22. It uses real match data to create more authentic animations and fluid gameplay.

• Over 6,000 new animations

• Motion capture from full 11v11 matches

• Improved ball physics and dribbling mechanics

Core Gameplay Feel

Players experience tighter ball control, improved AI movement, and enhanced player interactions. The game feels more physical and reactive, with emphasis on skill expression and strategic play.

3. Visuals and Presentation: Broadcast-Worthy Quality

Visual Overhaul

FIFA 23 continues to push the limits of realism, especially on next-gen consoles:

• Detailed player faces and lifelike stadium atmospheres

• Real-time pitch wear and tear

• Upgraded lighting and crowd animations

Commentary and Broadcast Feel

• Dynamic match introductions and replays

• Commentary teams include Derek Rae, Stewart Robson, and Alex Scott

• Optional customization of camera angles and overlays for different leagues

The result is a game that often feels like a live football broadcast.

4. Ultimate Team: Chemistry, Icons, and FUT Moments

Chemistry System Revamp

The new chemistry model in FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) is designed to give players more freedom in squad building:

• Chemistry is no longer position-restricted

• Links now work across the whole squad based on nationality, league, and club

• Players earn chemistry individually rather than relying on adjacent positioning

FUT Moments

A brand-new feature, FUT Moments, offers bite-sized solo challenges with scenario-based objectives. It's ideal for quick play sessions and beginners learning mechanics.

Icons and Heroes

• Return of legendary players like Zidane, Cruyff, and Ronaldinho

• New FUT Heroes based on cult footballers from past eras

• Dynamic cards with World Cup variations

5. Career Mode: Real Managers and Player Personalization

Play As Real Managers

For the first time, you can take control of famous coaches like Jürgen Klopp, Pep Guardiola, or Thomas Tuchel, adding realism and immersion.

Player Career Upgrades

• Enhanced RPG elements

• Personality traits: Maverick, Heartbeat, Virtuoso

• Off-the-pitch activities influence your development

• Training minigames and interactive transfer system

These upgrades breathe new life into both Manager and Player Career Modes, which have long needed deeper interactivity.

6. Women’s Football Integration: Breaking New Ground

Women’s Club Football

FIFA 23 introduces club-level women’s football, including:

• Barclays Women’s Super League (England)

• D1 Arkema (France)

• National teams from past FIFA titles

This inclusion is a major step forward for representation in sports gaming.

Women’s World Cup Update

A free post-launch update added the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023, featuring national teams and authentic tournament visuals.

EA’s commitment to gender inclusivity is clearly present and expanding.

7. Cross-Play: Uniting the Player Base

FIFA 23 finally introduces cross-platform play, albeit with limitations.

How It Works

• Cross-play is available in 1v1 modes only, including FUT, Online Seasons, and Friendlies

• Supported across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC

• Players can toggle cross-play on or off in settings

Missing Features

• No cross-play for Pro Clubs or Co-Op Seasons

• Cross-generation play (e.g., PS4 vs PS5) is not supported

Still, this is a major leap toward a unified community, and a long-requested feature.

8. Additional Modes: Volta, Pro Clubs, and Online Seasons

Volta Football

The street football-inspired mode returns with:

• Customization of characters and pitches

• Arcade-style gameplay

• Weekly seasonal content

Volta leans into casual, fun football, a contrast to the simulation core.

Pro Clubs

• Still popular, especially among groups of friends

• Lack of cross-play is a major disappointment

• Improved leveling and skill point systems

These modes provide alternative ways to enjoy FIFA, especially in a social setting.

9. Expert Rating and Final Verdict

FIFA 23 serves as both a capstone and a transition point. It’s a technical achievement, an inclusive step forward, and a content-rich package. While not without flaws—particularly in its monetization approach and lack of innovation in certain modes—FIFA 23 excels where it matters most: delivering the beautiful game to fans with passion and precision.

As the final FIFA-branded title, it manages to honor the past while paving the way for the future.

FIFA 23 may not reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it to near perfection. With refined gameplay, next-gen presentation, and a broad selection of teams, leagues, and modes, it delivers an excellent football experience worthy of its legacy.

As the curtain closes on the FIFA era and the EA Sports FC chapter begins, FIFA 23 stands as a fitting tribute to nearly three decades of digital football excellence.