When FIFA and EA Sports ended their 30-year partnership in 2022, it marked the end of an era. Together, they had built one of the most iconic gaming franchises in history, generating billions in revenue and shaping the way fans connected with football. But beneath the surface, disagreements over financial control and creative freedom had been brewing for years. Unable to find common ground, the partnership dissolved, setting both entities on bold new paths.

‍

Fast forward to today: FIFA is gearing up to launch FIFA Rivals, a blockchain-powered game developed with Mythical Games, while EA Sports has doubled down on its independence with EA Sports FC. Both are chasing the future of football gaming, but their strategies couldn’t be more different.

FIFA’s Blockchain Gamble with FIFA Rivals

FIFA’s decision to go solo reflects its ambition to modernize gaming and claim full control over its digital footprint. With FIFA Rivals, launching in early 2025, FIFA is betting on blockchain technology to transform the player experience. The game promises real-time matches, club-building mechanics, and blockchain-backed ownership of in-game assets like player cards and collectibles.

‍

Unlike traditional gaming items, these blockchain-powered assets offer players true ownership—they can trade, sell, or hold them for value beyond the game. This innovation could establish a new standard for fan engagement, giving players more agency in shaping their gaming experience.

John Linden, CEO of Mythical Games, believes the game could attract over 100 million players globally.

‍

If successful, FIFA Rivals might not only redefine sports gaming but also position FIFA as a leader in integrating blockchain with mainstream entertainment.

EA Sports FC: Gameplay Over Blockchain

For EA Sports, the split with FIFA was an opportunity to refine its core product. With EA Sports FC, EA has continued its legacy of gameplay innovation, focusing on polished mechanics, expanded player customization, and inclusivity.

‍

Freed from FIFA’s licensing fees, EA has reinvested in gameplay development, delivering a product that fans and critics alike have praised. The game’s reception demonstrates that EA’s approach—sticking to what it does best—is resonating with players who value immersive gameplay above all else.

‍

By leaning into its strengths, EA has solidified its position as the go-to choice for football gaming purists, proving that high-quality content remains king.

Blockchain’s Evolving Role in Gaming

The use of blockchain in FIFA Rivals is a strategic move to tap into the potential of decentralized ownership. Blockchain allows developers to create ecosystems where players are stakeholders, fostering engagement and loyalty.

‍

For FIFA, blockchain offers an opportunity to build a marketplace around in-game assets, turning casual gamers into active participants in the game’s economy. If executed well, this could bring sports fans and gamers together, creating new opportunities for fan engagement.

‍

Other industries are watching closely. While many blockchain projects have struggled with scalability and adoption, successful implementations in gaming could serve as a blueprint for broader applications, from retail to finance.

The Risks and Rewards

FIFA’s blockchain gamble isn’t without its hurdles. For most players, terms like “digital ownership” still sound complicated. The real challenge will be making blockchain invisible—letting players enjoy the benefits without needing a tech manual. Blockchain often faces a stigma of complexity and speculation, but FIFA can overcome this challenge - something Venly has already addressed with its seamless game SDK, turning blockchain into a silent, yet powerful, driver.

‍

EA Sports, meanwhile, faces a different challenge: maintaining its dominance in an increasingly competitive market. While EA Sports FC has been well-received, the pressure to innovate and retain its fan base without the FIFA brand will remain constant.

‍

Both approaches - blockchain-powered engagement versus gameplay-focused refinement—highlight the evolving priorities in the gaming industry. The question is whether FIFA’s blockchain-driven model can generate the same level of loyalty that EA’s traditional approach has built over decades. That said, I believe that as gaming evolves to a point where technology becomes indistinguishable, blockchain dynamics will ultimately prevail in the long run.

Implications for Businesses

What can businesses take away from FIFA and EA’s split?

• Focus on What Fans Want: Whether it’s blockchain ownership or polished gameplay, giving customers meaningful experiences builds loyalty that lasts.
• Play to Your Strengths: EA doubled down on what it does best—gameplay—and it’s paying off. Knowing your core strengths keeps you ahead of the game.
• Timing Is Everything: Blockchain isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Success comes from knowing when and how to introduce it.
  

Unlock Blockchain’s Value for Your Business

To help businesses explore the transformative power of blockchain, we created the StartToBlockchain Innovator Program, tailored for forward-thinking leaders eager to experiment and learn.

• Expert-Led Webinars: Learn how blockchain is reshaping industries like finance, supply chain, and digital assets.
• Tailored Business Advice: See how blockchain can align with your goals.
• Prototyping Credits: Test blockchain solutions on Venly’s platform with guidance from our experts.
• Exclusive Resources: Access tools and insights to guide your blockchain journey.

‍
➡️ Join our StartToBlockchain Innovator Program to test blockchain solutions with expert support.

The Future of Football Gaming  

FIFA and EA’s rivalry is transforming the football gaming world. Whether it’s FIFA’s bold leap into blockchain or EA’s relentless pursuit of gameplay perfection, both are setting new standards for the industry.  

‍

For fans, the future of football gaming is filled with possibilities. Imagine owning digital assets that matter, or playing the most immersive football game yet.

‍
For businesses, the message is clear: innovation isn’t waiting. Whether it’s blockchain or new ways to engage customers, the opportunity is here. The ones who act now won’t just join the future - they’ll lead it. Questions or feedback? Let's talk!

‍

Warm regards,
‍Tim Dierckxsens
CEO, Venly