FIFA 22 Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

FIFA 22 is the latest installment in the popular football video game series developed by EA Sports. It offers an immersive and realistic football experience, allowing players to take control of their favorite teams and players from around the world. The game is set to be released on October 1, 2021, and will be available on various platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

Gameplay Changes in FIFA 22

FIFA 22 introduces several gameplay changes that aim to enhance the overall experience and make the game more realistic. One of the major improvements is the enhanced AI and player movement. The players now exhibit more intelligent and realistic behavior, making better decisions on the field and reacting more naturally to different situations. This adds a new level of authenticity to the gameplay.

In addition, FIFA 22 introduces new attacking and defending mechanics. The attacking AI has been improved, allowing for more creative and dynamic attacking plays. Players can now make more precise runs and perform better off-the-ball movements. On the defensive side, there are new tools and mechanics that give players more control over their defensive strategies. This includes improved player positioning and better tackling mechanics.

Furthermore, FIFA 22 features enhanced ball physics and dribbling. The ball now moves more realistically, with improved bounce and spin. This adds a new level of realism to the gameplay and makes it more challenging and rewarding to control the ball. Dribbling has also been improved, with new skill moves and animations that allow for more creativity and fluidity in player movements.

Graphics and Visuals in FIFA 22

FIFA 22 boasts impressive graphics and visuals that further enhance the immersive experience. The player models have been upgraded, with more realistic facial features and body movements. The animations have also been improved, making the players look and move more naturally on the field. This attention to detail adds a new level of realism to the game.

The stadiums and crowd details have also received a significant upgrade in FIFA 22. The stadiums now feature more realistic textures and lighting, creating a more immersive atmosphere. The crowd animations and reactions have been improved, making the matches feel more alive and dynamic. This attention to detail adds to the overall authenticity of the game.

Additionally, FIFA 22 introduces enhanced lighting and weather effects. The lighting has been improved to create more realistic shadows and reflections on the field. The weather effects, such as rain and snow, have also been enhanced to create a more immersive and dynamic playing environment. These visual improvements add to the overall realism and immersion of the game.

New Features in FIFA 22

FIFA 22 introduces several new features that enhance the gameplay and offer new experiences for players. One of the standout features is the HyperMotion technology, which combines advanced motion capture with machine learning to create more realistic player movements and interactions. This technology allows for more authentic animations and behaviors on the field, making the gameplay feel more lifelike.

Another new feature in FIFA 22 is the Create a Club mode, which allows players to create their own custom club from scratch. This mode offers a deep and immersive experience, allowing players to customize every aspect of their club, from the team name and logo to the stadium and kits. Players can then take their custom club through various competitions and build their own football dynasty.

FIFA 22 also brings improvements to the Player Career mode, allowing players to experience the journey of a professional footballer. The mode now offers more realistic player development and progression, with improved training options and more meaningful player interactions. Players can also choose to start their career at a young age and work their way up through the ranks, adding a new level of depth and realism to the mode.

Additionally, FIFA 22 introduces new celebrations and animations, allowing players to express themselves on the field. There are a variety of new celebrations to choose from, including team celebrations and individual player celebrations. These animations add to the overall immersion and excitement of the game.

Career Mode in FIFA 22

FIFA 22 brings several changes and improvements to the Career Mode, offering a more immersive and realistic experience for players. One of the major changes is the introduction of a new feature called “Create a Club.” This allows players to create their own custom club from scratch, giving them full control over every aspect of their team. From choosing the team name and logo to managing the stadium and finances, players can create their dream club and lead them to glory.

The Career Mode in FIFA 22 also offers new features and options for managing your team. There are improved training options, allowing players to develop their squad and improve individual player attributes. The transfer system has also been revamped, with more realistic player valuations and negotiations. Scouting has also been improved, with more detailed player reports and better scouting options.

Furthermore, FIFA 22 introduces a new feature called “Player Conversations,” which allows players to interact with their squad members and make decisions that can impact team morale and performance. This adds a new layer of depth and realism to the Career Mode, as players must manage not only the on-field performance but also the off-field dynamics of their team.

Ultimate Team in FIFA 22

FIFA 22 brings several new features and improvements to the popular Ultimate Team mode. One of the standout features is the introduction of FUT Heroes, which are special player items that celebrate legendary players from different eras of football. These FUT Heroes have unique attributes and can be used to build powerful squads.

The FUT Champions system has also undergone changes in FIFA 22. The qualification process has been simplified, making it easier for players to participate in competitive matches and earn rewards. The matchmaking system has also been improved, ensuring that players are matched with opponents of similar skill levels.

Additionally, FIFA 22 introduces new cards and player items, including Ones to Watch cards that represent players who have recently transferred to new clubs. These cards have dynamic ratings that can increase based on the player’s real-life performance. This adds a new level of excitement and anticipation to the Ultimate Team mode.

Comparison with FIFA 21

FIFA 22 brings several differences and improvements compared to its predecessor, FIFA 21. One of the major differences is the introduction of HyperMotion technology, which enhances the player movements and animations. This technology adds a new level of realism to the gameplay and makes the matches feel more lifelike.

In terms of gameplay changes, FIFA 22 introduces new attacking and defending mechanics, as well as enhanced ball physics and dribbling. These changes improve the overall gameplay experience and make it more challenging and rewarding to control the ball and score goals.

In terms of graphics and visuals, FIFA 22 features upgraded player models and animations, as well as improved stadium and crowd details. The lighting and weather effects have also been enhanced, creating a more immersive and realistic playing environment.

Soundtrack and Commentary in FIFA 22

FIFA 22 features an impressive soundtrack that includes a diverse range of songs from various genres. The soundtrack includes tracks from popular artists such as Billie Eilish, Glass Animals, and Kings of Leon, among others. The songs are carefully selected to create an energetic and immersive atmosphere during matches.

The commentary in FIFA 22 has also received improvements and changes. The commentators provide more dynamic and accurate commentary, reacting to the events happening on the field in real-time. This adds to the overall immersion and realism of the game.

What We Like

There are several aspects of FIFA 22 that we particularly like. One of the standout features is the HyperMotion technology, which enhances the player movements and animations. This technology adds a new level of realism to the gameplay and makes the matches feel more lifelike.

We also appreciate the improvements to the Career Mode, including the new Create a Club mode and the enhanced player development and progression. These additions offer a more immersive and realistic experience for players who enjoy managing their own team.

Furthermore, we enjoy the new features and improvements in the Ultimate Team mode, such as the introduction of FUT Heroes and the changes to the FUT Champions system. These additions add new excitement and depth to the popular game mode.

What We Dislike

While FIFA 22 brings many improvements and new features, there are also some aspects that we dislike. One area where the game could improve is the AI behavior, particularly in terms of player positioning and decision-making. There are still instances where players exhibit unrealistic behavior or make questionable decisions on the field.

Another area that could be improved is the Career Mode, specifically in terms of the transfer system. While there have been improvements, there are still instances where player valuations and negotiations feel unrealistic. This can detract from the overall immersion and realism of the mode.

Additionally, some players may find that the game’s learning curve is steep, especially for newcomers to the series or casual players. The game offers a wide range of controls and mechanics that can be overwhelming for those who are not familiar with the series.

We Rate It: 8 out of 10 Stars

Overall, we rate FIFA 22 as an 8 out of 10. The game brings several improvements and new features that enhance the gameplay and offer a more immersive and realistic experience. The HyperMotion technology, improved AI, and enhanced graphics and visuals add to the overall authenticity of the game.

While there are areas where FIFA 22 could improve, such as AI behavior and the transfer system in Career Mode, the game still offers a highly enjoyable and immersive football experience. The new features and improvements in the Ultimate Team mode also add depth and excitement to the game.

Conclusion: Should You Upgrade to FIFA 22?

In conclusion, FIFA 22 is a highly recommended upgrade for fans of the series and football enthusiasts. The game brings several improvements and new features that enhance the gameplay and offer a more immersive and realistic experience. The HyperMotion technology, improved AI, and enhanced graphics and visuals add to the overall authenticity of the game.

If you are a fan of the Career Mode, the new features and improvements in FIFA 22 offer a more immersive and realistic experience for managing your own team. The Ultimate Team mode also offers new features and improvements that add depth and excitement to the game.

Overall, FIFA 22 is a worthwhile upgrade for fans of the series and football enthusiasts who are looking for a realistic and immersive football experience.