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MONSTER

FIFA 23

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of FIFA 23
Item: FIFA 23
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresThird Person Perspective, Simulation, Sports, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 27, 2022

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

DeveloperEA Sports

Overview

FIFA 23 brings The World’s Game to the pitch, with HyperMotion2 Technology that delivers even more gameplay realism, men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup coming during the season, women’s club teams, cross-play features, and more.

Elsewhere

5.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

FIFA 23 marks the end of an era as the last game under the FIFA name, celebrating football's evolution and featuring unique elements like AFC Richmond from Ted Lasso. However, critics slam its lack of a strong narrative, particularly in Career Mode, which feels neglected and underdeveloped. Overall, while historically significant, FIFA 23 fails to deliver the engaging storytelling many players desire.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of various critics regarding the story aspect of FIFA 23 highlight some notable positives, particularly in the context of its historical significance. Critics like GameOver.gr and INVEN emphasize that FIFA 23 marks the end of an era as the last title to bear the FIFA name, which adds a layer of importance to its release. This sentiment is echoed by IGN Italia, who reflects on the evolution of football and the rivalry between legendary players Messi and Ronaldo, suggesting that the game encapsulates a pivotal moment in football history. Additionally, Cubed3 points out the inclusion of AFC Richmond from the Apple TV show Ted Lasso, which, while not a traditional story mode, introduces a novel element that fans of the show may appreciate. However, the critiques also reveal a substantial number of negatives, particularly surrounding the lack of a robust narrative or story mode. Critics like XGN and GameCritics express disappointment with the Career Mode, describing it as feeling neglected and lacking a compelling narrative. GameCritics specifically mentions that the mode feels like an afterthought, with minimal impact from player decisions, which detracts from the overall experience. Furthermore, SomosXbox highlights the absence of a dedicated story mode, indicating a missed opportunity to provide depth and engagement for players seeking a more narrative-driven experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while FIFA 23 holds historical significance and introduces some interesting elements, it falls short in delivering a compelling story or narrative experience. The critiques from XGN, GameCritics, and SomosXbox underline a common disappointment regarding the Career Mode and the absence of a dedicated story mode, indicating that many players were left wanting more in terms of narrative depth. Thus, while FIFA 23 may capture a pivotal moment in football history, it appears to lack the engaging storytelling that could have elevated the game further.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

FIFA 23 brings notable improvements with the new Power Shot mechanic and Hypermotion 2 technology, enhancing strategy and player animations. Critics praise its refined gameplay and tactical focus, but issues like unrealistic player control, poor pacing, and inconsistent defensive AI hold it back. While it's a step forward for the franchise, it still struggles to balance arcade fun with realistic simulation, leaving room for growth in future editions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of FIFA 23 has garnered a mixed but generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several improvements and new features that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers praised the introduction of the Power Shot mechanic, which adds a new layer of strategy to shooting, as noted by IGN Italia and TrueGaming. The implementation of Hypermotion 2 technology has also been commended for creating more dynamic and realistic animations, with critics like MGG and The Loadout emphasizing the improved fluidity of player movements. Additionally, the gameplay is described as more methodical and tactical, with a focus on passing and building up play, as noted by Pure Xbox and VideoGamer. Overall, many critics agree that the gameplay feels refined, with improvements in ball control and defensive mechanics, making it a more satisfying experience compared to previous iterations. However, despite these advancements, several critics pointed out significant gameplay issues that detract from the overall quality of FIFA 23. IGN France and Metro GameCentral highlighted concerns regarding the lack of realism and poor pacing, with frustrations over player control and unrealistic turning circles. Some reviewers, such as IGN and Nintendo Life, criticized the Nintendo Switch version for being virtually unchanged from previous editions, indicating a lack of innovation on that platform. Additionally, issues with goalkeeper performance and defensive AI were raised by IGN Portugal and New Game Network, suggesting that while attacking gameplay has seen improvements, defensive aspects remain inconsistent and problematic. Critics like Twinfinite and Gamer.nl echoed sentiments of imbalance, particularly regarding the effectiveness of certain gameplay mechanics. In summary, the overall consensus among critics indicates that FIFA 23 has made notable strides in gameplay, particularly with the introduction of new mechanics and improved animations. While many reviewers, including Softpedia and Gamersky, appreciated the refinements and enhancements, the game is not without its flaws. Critics have pointed out persistent issues with realism, pacing, and defensive AI that could hinder the experience for some players. As a result, FIFA 23 appears to be a step forward for the franchise, but it still grapples with balancing the line between arcade-style fun and realistic football simulation, leaving room for further improvement in future installments.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

FIFA 23's graphics and visual design receive mixed reviews: praised for realistic visuals and HyperMotion tech that enhances player movement, but criticized for lacking significant improvements over FIFA 22 and showing issues with player models and crowd animations. While advancements are noted, many feel the upgrades are merely iterative, leading to disappointment in the game's visual fidelity compared to other titles, indicating a need for more substantial evolution in future releases.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of FIFA 23 have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting several advancements that enhance the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as TrueGaming and WellPlayed, praised the game for its realistic graphics, improved player models, and immersive atmosphere that closely resembles a live football match. The introduction of HyperMotion technology has been noted for its contribution to smoother animations and more lifelike player movements, as mentioned by GameSpot and Gameblog.fr. Critics like Generación Xbox and COGconnected also acknowledged the attention to detail in the game's environments, including realistic pitch wear and atmospheric effects that add depth to the gameplay experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of FIFA 23. Several reviewers, including Forbes and New Game Network, expressed disappointment with the game's visual fidelity, suggesting that it feels underwhelming compared to other contemporary sports titles and lacks significant improvements over FIFA 22. Critics like Atomix and SomosXbox pointed out issues with generic player models and repetitive crowd animations, which detract from the realism expected in a triple-A game. Additionally, concerns were raised about inconsistencies in player likenesses, with some models appearing poorly rendered, as highlighted by MGG Spain and TierraGamer. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, reflecting both appreciation for the advancements in graphics and disappointment in certain areas. While many acknowledge the impressive aspects of FIFA 23's visuals, such as its realistic player animations and atmospheric details, there is a shared sentiment that the game has not significantly evolved from its predecessor, FIFA 22. Critics like IGN and Game Informer noted that the visual upgrades feel more iterative rather than groundbreaking, leading to a perception that FIFA 23 may not fully meet the high expectations set for next-gen sports titles. This duality in feedback suggests that while FIFA 23 offers a visually appealing experience, it still has room for improvement in certain areas to achieve a truly standout graphical presentation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

FIFA 23's soundtrack and immersive audio design receive high praise for enhancing gameplay with improved sound effects and authentic crowd chants. Critics commend the music selection and innovative use of the PS5 controller's speaker. However, the commentary is widely criticized for being repetitive and outdated, detracting from the overall audio experience. While the game excels in many sound aspects, a significant overhaul of the commentary is needed for future versions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of FIFA 23 have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly regarding the game's soundtrack and immersive audio features. Many reviewers highlighted the robust soundtrack, with GameOver.gr noting "improved sound effects" that enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics such as GRYOnline.pl and Vandal praised the selection of music, with the latter calling the sound design "excellent." Additionally, the inclusion of authentic crowd chants and the overall atmosphere was positively noted by IGN Adria, contributing to a more immersive experience during matches. The use of the PS5 controller's speaker for ball sounds, as mentioned by Impulsegamer, also adds a clever touch to the sound design. However, the commentary in FIFA 23 has received significant criticism, with several reviewers expressing dissatisfaction with its quality. CD-Action criticized the commentary in both Polish and English versions, while Hardcore Gamer described it as "dodgy" in places. The repetitive nature of the commentary was a common theme, with Hobby Consolas and Trusted Reviews pointing out that the lines feel outdated and lack depth. Critics like Xbox Achievements echoed this sentiment, stating that the audio commentary is "nearly identical to last year’s FIFA" and is overdue for an overhaul. This criticism indicates a clear area where the game falls short, detracting from the overall audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while FIFA 23 excels in its soundtrack and immersive sound design, the commentary remains a significant drawback. Many reviewers appreciate the diverse range of music and the effective crowd audio, which contributes to an engaging atmosphere during gameplay. However, the repetitive and sometimes lackluster commentary detracts from the overall experience, leaving room for improvement in future iterations. Critics such as TrueGaming and GameCritics highlighted the impressive sound effects and crowd interactions, but the need for a fresh approach to commentary is a recurring theme that cannot be overlooked.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

FIFA 23 impresses with smooth 4K performance at 60 fps on PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for stability and online play. However, it’s marred by glitches, slow menus, and animation issues, especially in Ultimate Team. PC players faced initial launch problems due to an anti-cheat tool. Critics agree the game shows progress but needs fixes to fully realize its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of FIFA 23 has garnered a mix of positive feedback across various platforms. On the PlayStation 5, critics like Vandal noted that the game runs smoothly at 4K resolution and 60 fps, with satisfactory online connectivity and minimal latency. MeuPlayStation echoed this sentiment, praising the overall stability and lack of connectivity issues. On the Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox highlighted that FIFA 23 also runs smoothly at 4K and 60 fps, with the added benefit of cross-play functionality, albeit not in all game modes. The Hypermotion V2 engine received commendations from Jeuxvideo.com for its lack of loading times, indicating a solid technical foundation for the game. However, several negative aspects were pointed out by critics across platforms. On the PS5, CD-Action and Gamer.nl criticized the game for glitches, bugs, and issues with animations and hit detection, particularly in Ultimate Team. Gfinity and VideoGamer mentioned frustrating slow menus and bugs that affect gameplay experience. On the Xbox Series X, SpazioGames and XboxEra reported occasional frame rate issues and technical hiccups, such as drops during replays, which detracted from the overall experience. On PC, GameStar highlighted initial problems with running the game due to a new anti-cheat tool, suggesting that these issues could be resolved with future patches. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while FIFA 23 shows significant improvements in technical performance compared to previous editions, it is not without its flaws. Many reviews, such as those from IGN Italia and The Loadout, suggest that while the game performs well in terms of stability and frame rates, issues like bugs, animations, and menu performance still need addressing. The mixed feedback suggests that while FIFA 23 has made strides forward, particularly with its graphics and online play features, it still requires further refinement to reach its full potential across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

FIFA 23 impresses with its Ultimate Team mode, featuring a revamped chemistry system and new "Moments" challenges that enhance replay value. However, criticism arises over the lack of significant innovations across other modes and heavy reliance on microtransactions, leading to a repetitive experience for long-time players. While newcomers may enjoy the content, veterans might find it disappointing due to minimal updates from FIFA 22. Overall, it's a solid entry but lacks the fresh feel many were hoping for.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

FIFA 23 has garnered a mix of positive sentiments regarding its replay value, particularly in its Ultimate Team mode. Critics like IGN Spain and Gameblog.fr highlight the significant changes in Ultimate Team, including a revamped chemistry system and the introduction of the "Moments" mode, which allows players to engage in various challenges and earn rewards. This mode has been praised for adding depth to the gameplay experience, as noted by Forbes and GameSpot. Additionally, the inclusion of diverse game modes such as Career, VOLTA, and Pro Clubs, as mentioned by Pure Xbox and Guardian, provides players with a wide range of options that cater to different play styles, enhancing the overall replayability of the game. However, many reviewers express concerns about the lack of substantial innovation across the various game modes. XboxEra and Nintendo Life point out that FIFA 23 does not introduce many new game modes or significant changes from previous iterations, which may lead to diminished replay value, especially for players who already own FIFA 22. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Hardcore Gamer echo this sentiment, noting that while there are some minor tweaks, the overall experience may feel repetitive for long-time fans. The heavy reliance on microtransactions in Ultimate Team, as criticized by Push Square and IGN Brasil, further complicates the enjoyment of the mode, making it less appealing for casual players. The overall consensus among critics is that while FIFA 23 offers a wealth of content and some enjoyable new features, particularly in Ultimate Team, it falls short in providing substantial innovations across other game modes. Many reviews suggest that the game may be more appealing to newcomers rather than veterans of the series, as noted by INVEN and Meristation. Critics like Vandal and Gfinity highlight that the lack of significant updates could disappoint players seeking a fresh experience. Ultimately, FIFA 23 is seen as a solid entry in the franchise, but its replay value may be limited for those expecting more substantial changes.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

FIFA 23 has garnered a mixed yet generally positive reception among critics, with several reviewers highlighting its notable advancements in gameplay and overall experience. Critics like IGN Brasil and WellPlayed appreciate the new features and improvements, particularly praising the gameplay mechanics and the introduction of a World Cup mode alongside a more inclusive roster of female teams. The implementation of the Hypermotion V2 engine has also been noted for enhancing the realism of the gameplay, with God is a Geek and Softpedia recognizing it as a significant step forward. Additionally, the game is seen as a fitting farewell to the franchise, with many reviewers, including IGN Adria and The Loadout, expressing excitement for what future iterations may bring. However, there are considerable criticisms regarding FIFA 23, particularly concerning its lack of innovation and significant improvements across various game modes. Critics like New Game Network and Metro GameCentral emphasize that the game feels rushed and lacks polish, while others, such as GamingBolt and Cubed3, echo sentiments about the Career Mode's stagnation and the absence of meaningful updates. The monetization strategies in FIFA Ultimate Team have also drawn ire, with multiple reviewers, including WellPlayed and Gamer.no, criticizing its pay-to-win model. Furthermore, some critics, like Generación Xbox and MGG, point out that while the gameplay has improved, the game still feels formulaic and fails to deliver a revolutionary experience compared to its predecessors. Overall, the consensus among critics is that FIFA 23 is a solid installment in the franchise, offering a mix of improvements and familiar elements. While many reviewers acknowledge that it is technically better than FIFA 22, the game is often described as a safe evolution rather than a groundbreaking entry. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and XboxEra suggest that the decision to purchase FIFA 23 largely depends on individual preferences, especially for those who played the previous installment. The game is generally recommended for fans of football simulation, but potential buyers are advised to consider whether the incremental updates justify a purchase, particularly if they have recently played FIFA 22.

TL;DR

FIFA 23 offers solid gameplay improvements and new features like a World Cup mode and enhanced realism via the Hypermotion V2 engine, earning generally positive reviews. However, it faces criticism for a lack of innovation, polish, and stagnant game modes, particularly in Career Mode, as well as a controversial pay-to-win model in FIFA Ultimate Team. While it’s deemed a fitting farewell to the franchise, it’s a safe evolution rather than a groundbreaking title. Potential buyers, especially those familiar with FIFA 22, should weigh whether the incremental updates are worth the purchase.

MONSTER

Reviews

131 reviews found

100

Daily Star

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review gives a verdict of 5/5.

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GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Sep 27, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Se concluye que FIFA 23 es el simulador de fútbol más completo hasta la fecha, con mejoras como HyperMotion2 y nuevas mecánicas. Sin embargo, se menciona el desbalance de algunos atletas y la falta de posibilidad de mejorarlos.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Oct 6, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FIFA 23 is considered a noticeable upgrade from FIFA 22, particularly for owners of next-gen consoles. The introduction of the women's game mode and the inclusion of Ted Lasso content make the decision to purchase easier. However, the game still feels pre-determined and lacks true randomness and excitement. Ultimate Team is still microtransaction-focused. No specific overall score is mentioned.

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Areajugones

PlayStation 5

Sep 27, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FIFA 23 is considered a significant improvement over FIFA 22, with the Ultimate Team mode being particularly revitalized. The gameplay has become slower, focusing more on player movement rather than skill moves. The improved chemistry system allows for more diverse and varied team compositions. However, there is still a noticeable gap between players who invest in FIFA Points and those who do not.

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MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Oct 16, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FIFA 23 brings numerous enhancements to gameplay, graphics, audio, and cross-platform play, providing a more realistic and immersive football experience.

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Softpedia

PlayStation 5

Oct 12, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FIFA 23 is a major release with tons of changes and is considered the best FIFA ever, despite some areas that still need polishing.

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TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Sep 27, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FIFA 23 offers enough changes in gameplay mechanics to provide a fresh and enjoyable experience, making it the game fans have been waiting for.

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XboxEra

Xbox Series X

Nov 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that FIFA 23 makes important changes to the core gameplay, but lacks new content compared to FIFA 22. The decision to buy the game depends on individual preferences.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Oct 3, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that FIFA 23 is the perfect end to the franchise, with new features and improvements building on its strong foundation to create the most immersive experience to date.

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TrueGaming

PlayStation 5

Sep 26, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FIFA 23 is praised as the best football game ever made and delivers what football fans want. The gameplay experience is significantly better than FIFA 22. There may be an excessive number of game modes, and cross-platform play is not ideal. However, for fans of the sport, FIFA 23 is worth buying.

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