INTRODUCTION
As the leaves change color each fall, soccer enthusiasts across the globe brace themselves for the latest installment in a cult classic game series. Born in the mid-90s and meticulously curated for over two decades by the Canadian wing of EA, this year’s offering, FIFA 16, graced the popular PC platform and several consoles, such as PlayStation 3, of both the present and previous generations. However, it disregarded Nintendo consoles. Instead, mobile gamers on iOS and Android enjoyed the release of FIFA Mobile.
A UNIFORM EXPERIENCE ACROSS PLATFORMS
Regardless of the platform, FIFA 16 delivers a consistent gaming experience in content, with the principal differences primarily concentrated on visual quality. The versions released on the PC and next-generation consoles, equipped with the cutting-edge Ignite engine, presented an aesthetically superior experience compared to the editions designed for Xbox 360 and PS3, which were created using the last-gen engine.
MISSING OUT ON SOME FEATURES
While the game is a treat for football fans, specific editions of FIFA 16, particularly those running on the last generation engine, left out some compelling features. FOR INSTANCE, the FIFA Interactive World Cup was accessible exclusively on PS4 and XONE. Similarly, the Creation Centre, GameFace, and even the option for secondary English commentary were notably absent. Moreover, these versions didn’t allow the liberty to play non-default music, a minute detail but one that could enhance the overall gaming ambiance.
VISUAL QUALITY DIFFERENCES
Digging deeper into the differences, the game’s visual quality on different platforms is a point of discussion. The advanced Ignite engine, used for the PC and next-gen releases, dramatically enhanced the game’s visual appeal. On the other hand, Xbox 360 and PS3 editions were confined to the limitations of the last generation engine, thus lacking the visual finesse exhibited by their counterparts.
EXCLUSIVITY OF SOME FEATURES
A glance at the specifics of exclusivity throws light on the detailed work behind the game. Features like the FIFA Interactive World Cup were reserved for PS4 and XONE users. The Creation Centre and GameFace, unique attributes adding layers to the game’s depth, were also omitted from the last-gen console versions. The absence of secondary English commentary was another unfortunate exclusion, impacting the overall gaming experience.
LAUNCH DATES
Unifying the soccer gaming community, FIFA 16 had a synchronized release across all platforms. Soccer lovers in the USA got their hands on the game on September 22, 2015. Meanwhile, European gamers had to bite their nails for three more days before diving into the game on September 25. Despite minor differences and omissions, FIFA 16 was a significant addition to the prestigious EA franchise, earning it a spot in the hearts of gamers worldwide.
