In 2023, the unthinkable happened in the gaming world: the most iconic sports video game franchise, FIFA, disappeared from store shelves — at least in name.

After decades of domination, Electronic Arts (EA) rebranded its massively popular football simulation game to EA Sports FC, severing its three-decade-long licensing partnership with football’s global governing body, FIFA. This rupture wasn’t just a branding change — it was a monumental industry shift, ignited by a clash over money, control, and creative freedom.

This is the story of how a game that sold $20 billion in its lifetime changed forever — and how FIFA, the organization, found itself outplayed and empty-handed.

The Origin: A Partnership That Shaped Sports Gaming

It all began in 1993 with the release of FIFA International Soccer. Developed by EA Sports, the game faced a rocky production and low expectations. But to everyone’s surprise, it was a breakout hit — selling half a million copies monthly and topping both U.S. and U.K. sales charts. Released just before the 1994 World Cup in the U.S., the game played a pivotal role in popularizing football among American audiences.

Over the years, FIFA evolved beyond a game; it became a cultural phenomenon. Gamers around the globe — from casual fans to hardcore players — were drawn to its immersive realism and expansive licensing agreements. The ability to play as real-life clubs and athletes gave it an edge few competitors could rival.

Yet, it wasn’t without competition.

The Rivalry: Pro Evolution Soccer vs. FIFA

For years, Pro Evolution Soccer (PES), developed by Japanese studio Konami, stood as FIFA’s fiercest rival. Many critics even considered PES the superior game, especially for its refined and realistic gameplay. But PES lacked the licenses that made FIFA instantly recognizable and appealing.

EA doubled down on realism and branding. And by 2008, FIFA had gained the upper hand — especially after launching Ultimate Team, a card-based game mode where players built squads from digital trading cards. This mode exploded in popularity, generating over $1 billion annually and transforming FIFA into a digital juggernaut.

The franchise became a core part of eSports, watched by tens of thousands on platforms like Twitch. By 2021, FIFA had sold over 375 million copies, cementing its status as the undisputed king of sports gaming.

The Breakdown: Money, Control, and Creative Limits

Despite this success, storm clouds were gathering. By 2021, negotiations between EA and FIFA for a new licensing agreement had stalled. FIFA, emboldened by the franchise’s massive profits, reportedly demanded $1 billion per four-year World Cup cycle — double its previous fee.

EA balked. CEO Andrew Wilson was blunt, claiming the FIFA name was little more than “four letters on a box” and that the licensing agreement stifled the game’s growth. Internally, EA believed they needed more creative freedom, unencumbered by FIFA’s bureaucratic processes.

And so, in 2022, the breakup was finalized.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino promised a new game bearing the FIFA name would debut in 2024, vowing it would be “the best one available for gamers and football fans.” But EA struck first.

The Rebrand: EA Sports FC Takes the Field

In September 2023, EA launched EA Sports FC 24 — and it was virtually indistinguishable from the previous FIFA installments. Thanks to over 300 licensing deals, including those with the English Premier League and UEFA, fans still enjoyed authentic teams, players, and stadiums. The game was a smash hit, outselling its predecessor by 7% and becoming the best-selling U.K. game of the year with 2.25 million copies sold.

The transition was seamless — and devastating for FIFA’s ambitions. By April 2024, FIFA had yet to release or even announce a competing game. The absence of a new title also raised questions about the future of the FIFA eWorld Cup, which had traditionally been powered by EA’s game. With no clear replacement, its future remains uncertain.

A New Challenger on the Horizon?

In early 2024, reports emerged that FIFA was in talks with 2K Games — a developer known for its NBA 2K franchise — to create a rival football game. This move rekindled hopes of a renewed rivalry, reminiscent of the FIFA vs. PES era. Given 2K’s track record of snatching the NBA license from EA and turning it into a dominant brand, a partnership could be FIFA’s best shot at redemption.

Still, nothing has been confirmed. And as the months pass, EA only strengthens its grip on the virtual football world.

The Fallout: Lessons from a Licensing Loss

FIFA’s gamble — walking away from a proven $20 billion enterprise in hopes of doubling its licensing revenue — has so far backfired. Not only did EA thrive without the FIFA name, but FIFA itself has been left with no product, no revenue stream, and no presence in one of the fastest-growing digital entertainment sectors.

The saga serves as a stark reminder: in modern gaming, control over development and community engagement can matter far more than a name. EA’s bet on independence paid off handsomely, while FIFA’s demands pushed them out of their own game.

For fans, it’s been business as usual. And for those watching the space — whether investors, developers, or competitive gamers — the lesson is clear: branding alone isn’t enough. What matters is delivering a game that people want to play.

And that’s something EA has mastered — with or without the FIFA name.

Final Whistle: What’s Next?

As of mid-2025, FIFA’s future in gaming is still shrouded in uncertainty. Whether the rumored 2K partnership materializes or not, it’s clear the road back will be long and steep. Meanwhile, EA Sports FC continues to evolve, innovate, and dominate — leaving little doubt about who’s truly winning the game.

And for those into forecasts and trends in eSports and football gaming, keep an eye on platforms that specialize in competitive insights, such as tips GG prediction — where data-driven perspectives often mirror the shifts in industry power dynamics.