By Mark Baber
September 25 – Electronic Arts’ (EA) FIFA 14 became available in America on Tuesday. The new version of the game features improved and more realistic physics as well as new team and multi-player modes. Initial market reaction was positive with EA shares up 1.37% on the day to $26.55.
EA’s launch of the new game has been timed to avoid a sales drop as the eighth generation of games consoles, including the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, are due to be launched in November. The launch also comes as the company moves toward the day when games will only be sold digitally.
FIFA 14 is now available in retail stores throughout North America, and as a digital download on Origin, with releases worldwide later this week. Over 5 million fans have already played the demo version and reviews include the Official Xbox Magazine (USA) declaring FIFA 14 “bigger, bolder, and better than ever” and Gamesaktuell awarding the new game a 9.2/10 and calling it “the Messi of football games again.”
EA’s launch focuses heavily on the in-game improvements which players on the current generation of consoles can experience including more realistic physics through enhancements such as Pure Shot Shooting, Precision Movement, Real Ball Physics, Protect the Ball, Team Mate Intelligence and Sprint Dribble Turns and more social interactivity through the EA Sports Football Club.
A mobile version of FIFA 14 has also been launched as a free download on iPhone®, iPad®, iPod® touch, and Android devices.
The launch features a digital advertising creative campaign created by Wieden + Kennedy Amsterdam. The “We are FIFA 14” campaign features Lionel Messi as well as other players such as Gareth Bale, Stephan El Shaarawy, Tim Cahill and Javier Chicharito Hernandez.
In a nice touch, the Xbox version of the game now allows players to include historical players, including Pele, in their line-ups.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1734854808labto1734854808ofdlr1734854808owedi1734854808sni@r1734854808ebab.1734854808kram1734854808