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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

PlatformXbox One, PC, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

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 leans on cultural nods and historical weight but falters as a storytelling experience, with critics calling out its underdeveloped narrative, lack of meaningful choices in career mode, and missed opportunities to elevate football’s evolving story beyond nostalgia.

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 reviews of FIFA 23 highlight several positive aspects related to its storytelling and thematic elements, even if they don’t center on a traditional narrative. Cubed3 notes the inclusion of AFC Richmond from Ted Lasso as a standout feature, blending pop culture with football gaming in a way that adds novelty. IGN Italia emphasizes the game’s role in capturing the evolution of football, particularly the rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo, framing it as a nostalgic conclusion to an era. INVEN and JeuxActu also acknowledge the significance of FIFA 23 being the final title under the FIFA brand, with JeuxActu praising its focus on inclusivity and women’s football, albeit with reservations about the depth of that inclusion. These points suggest that while the game lacks a cohesive story, it succeeds in leveraging cultural moments and historical context to engage fans. However, critics largely agree that FIFA 23 falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. XGN and GameCritics criticize the career mode as an afterthought, with underdeveloped storytelling and minimal impact from player decisions, leaving fans unsatisfied. SomosXbox explicitly states disappointment in the absence of a story mode, arguing it would have added depth. While IGN Italia and INVEN acknowledge the game’s historical weight, they also imply that this significance isn’t translated into meaningful narrative content. JeuxActu’s critique of women’s football inclusion as “limited” further underscores the disconnect between the game’s ambitions and its execution. These criticisms point to a broader issue: FIFA 23 prioritizes legacy and mechanics over storytelling, leaving its narrative aspects feeling peripheral. The overall consensus among critics is that FIFA 23 is more about closure and cultural relevance than a robust story. While positives like the AFC Richmond integration, historical context, and inclusivity efforts are noted, they are overshadowed by widespread dissatisfaction with the lack of a cohesive narrative. Reviewers such as XGN, GameCritics, and SomosXbox consistently highlight the career mode’s shortcomings, suggesting that the game’s storytelling fails to meet expectations. Despite this, the title’s significance as the final FIFA-branded game and its nods to football’s evolution provide some redeeming qualities. Ultimately, FIFA 23 is seen as a transitional release—more focused on legacy than innovation in narrative design.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

FIFA 23 dazzles with HyperMotion 2 realism and Power Shots but falters on balance, AI, and glitches, offering a flawed yet ambitious step forward.

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 received praise for its technological advancements and refined mechanics, with several critics highlighting improvements in realism and player interaction. The introduction of HyperMotion 2 technology is frequently cited as a standout feature, enhancing animations and player movements to feel more natural (IGN Italia, TrueGaming). Power Shots and set-piece revisions are also celebrated for adding variety and strategic depth, with GameOver.gr noting their impact on shooting mechanics and Impulsegamer praising the "realistic game pace" and "strategic execution of acceleration." Additionally, the slower, more deliberate gameplay compared to previous entries is seen as a positive by Areajugones and Vgames, who emphasize improved passing systems and better player control. Critics like GamesRadar+ and WellPlayed highlight reduced speed and smarter defenders, while Pure Xbox and Generación Xbox commend the balance between realism and arcade-like fluidity. However, several critics point to persistent issues that detract from the experience. Imbalance and arcade-style mechanics are recurring concerns, with IGN France criticizing overpowered shots and "unrealistic" collisions, while GRYOnline.pl and Nintendo Life lament flaws in collision systems and stagnant gameplay on Switch. VG247 and Jeuxvideo.com note that the game’s fast pace feels "too intense" or "not truly realistic," and MeuPlayStation and Games.cz criticize defensive shortcomings and weak AI. The Hypermotion engine is praised for its realism but also scrutinized for occasional glitches, such as "bizarre goalkeeper mistakes" (Trusted Reviews) and "unrealistic goals" (Gamer.nl). Additionally, some reviewers, like JeuxActu, express concerns about the manual nature of Power Shots potentially disrupting balance. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward acknowledging FIFA 23’s incremental improvements while recognizing its flaws. While many praise the HyperMotion 2 technology and Power Shots as significant upgrades (TrueGaming, GameOver.gr), others argue that the game still struggles with balance issues and predictable AI (IGN France, GRYOnline.pl). The slower pace and strategic depth are seen as positives by some (Areajugones, Vgames), but not universally embraced. Despite these contradictions, there is a shared belief that FIFA 23 represents a step forward in realism and mechanics compared to earlier entries, even if it falls short of perfection. Critics like Impulsegamer and Daily Star highlight the game’s "deeper" and "more immersive" experience, while others, such as Nintendo Life and VG247, suggest that certain aspects—like AI behavior or pacing—still require refinement. The overall sentiment reflects a game that is technologically advanced but imperfect, with its strengths and weaknesses evenly distributed across different facets of gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

FIFA 23 dazzles with HyperMotion 2 realism and Power Shots but falters on balance, AI, and glitches, offering a flawed yet ambitious step forward.

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

FIFA 23’s visuals dazzle with HyperMotion2 realism, hyper-detailed stars, and next-gen polish, but inconsistent animations, generic lower-tier models, and technical glitches drag down its ambition—a solid step forward, not a leap.

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 received widespread praise for incremental improvements and specific technical advancements. Critics highlighted the enhanced HyperMotion2 technology, which delivered smoother animations and more realistic player movements, particularly in set pieces and match dynamics (Gameblog.fr). The attention to detail in stadiums, such as improved lighting, global illumination, and pitch design, was frequently noted (IGN France), while the inclusion of hyper-detailed player models—especially for top-tier stars like Messi and Mbappé—was celebrated for their lifelike authenticity (Daily Star, Vgames). Additionally, the game’s visual fidelity on next-gen consoles, such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, was lauded for its vibrant grass textures, dynamic crowd reactions, and cinematic replay angles (IGN Portugal, GameStar). Many reviewers also praised the realistic weather effects, stadium atmospheres, and the immersive experience of augmented reality replays (Hardcore Gamer, The Loadout). However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings. Some felt FIFA 23 failed to deliver a significant visual leap over its predecessor, with many noting that improvements like HyperMotion2 were barely noticeable or iterative rather than revolutionary (Game Informer, Xbox Achievements). Issues such as inconsistent player likenesses, generic character models, and animation bugs—particularly in lower-tier teams or less prominent players—were recurring criticisms (Atomix, Trusted Reviews). The game also faced backlash for technical glitches, including slow menus, frame rate issues, and unrealistic crowd animations (New Game Network, SpazioGames). Additionally, some reviewers criticized the overuse of effects like grass damage, which felt exaggerated and detracted from realism (New Game Network), while others noted that player faces and bodies varied in quality, with older scans appearing subpar compared to triple-A standards (VG247). Overall, the critical reception of FIFA 23’s graphics and visual design was mixed but leaning positive. While many critics acknowledged the game’s technical achievements—such as improved animations, stadium detail, and next-gen optimization (GameCritics, GRYOnline.pl)—others felt it fell short of expectations, particularly when compared to rival sports titles like NBA 2K23 or even previous FIFA entries (Forbes, GamePro Germany). The consensus was that FIFA 23 represents a solid evolution in visual design but lacks the transformative changes some had hoped for. Despite its flaws, the game’s commitment to realism and immersion, especially in key moments like replays and player movements, earned it praise from multiple outlets (IGN, Daily Star), though critics like New Game Network and Atomix emphasized that there is still room for improvement in areas like animation consistency and player representation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

FIFA 23’s sound design and soundtrack shine with immersive, diverse audio that elevates immersion, but repetitive, stale commentary undermines its technical polish.

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 in FIFA 23 received generally positive feedback from multiple reviewers, with several praising the game’s immersive audio elements. Critics like GameOver.gr highlighted the "robust soundtrack and improved sound effects," while IGN described the soundtrack as "dazzling" and noted players could enjoy it without the commentary. Vandal and TierraGamer commended the excellent sound design, including authentic team chants and high-quality recordings of the Real Madrid anthem, respectively. Additionally, MondoXbox emphasized the dynamic crowd behavior and over 100 songs in the soundtrack, while IGN Italia praised the "excitement of matches" enhanced by music and crowd reactions. The inclusion of international music, such as tracks from Rosalia and Stromae (Multiplayer.it), further underscored the game’s diverse auditory appeal. However, several critics pointed out flaws, particularly in the commentary. CD-Action criticized the Polish and English versions for being subpar, while Hobby Consolas and Trusted Reviews noted repetitive and outdated lines from commentators. SomosXbox expressed disappointment with recycled dialogue and a desire for fresh content, and JeuxActu remarked that the commentary "lacks the naturalness of live commentary." Xbox Achievements also criticized the audio commentary as nearly identical to previous years, calling it "overdue for an overhaul," though they acknowledged the music’s strengths. While some reviewers like Impulsegamer praised the in-controller PS5 speaker for ball sounds, others felt the commentary failed to match the game’s technical advancements. Overall, the consensus leans toward a balanced assessment: while the sound design and soundtrack were widely appreciated for their quality and variety, the commentary faced consistent criticism for repetition and lack of innovation. Critics like GameOver.gr, IGN, and Vandal highlighted the music as a standout feature, but many, including CD-Action, Hobby Consolas, and Trusted Reviews, felt the audio commentary fell short. The game’s auditory elements successfully enhanced immersion in most cases, yet the commentary’s shortcomings remained a notable drawback for several reviewers. This mix of praise and criticism reflects FIFA 23’s strengths in sound design but also its need for improvements in vocal delivery and variety.

TL;DR

music and sound design

FIFA 23’s sound design and soundtrack shine with immersive, diverse audio that elevates immersion, but repetitive, stale commentary undermines its technical polish.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

FIFA 23 offers polished gameplay with strong stability and visuals on PS5 and Xbox, but plagued by AI glitches, load times, and technical hiccups across platforms—proving a flawed yet promising evolution.

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 on PS5 received mixed but generally positive feedback, with several critics highlighting its stability and graphical improvements. MeuPlayStation praised the game’s “no issues with connectivity or crashes,” while Vandal noted smooth gameplay at 4K resolution and 60fps, emphasizing minimal latency in online play. TheLoadout confirmed no frame rate issues, and IGN Italia acknowledged overall satisfactory performance despite minor goalkeeper AI and physics flaws. On Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox and MondoXbox commended the game’s smooth operation at 4K/60fps, with cross-play functionality, while Jeuxvideo.com highlighted the Hypermotion V2 engine’s lack of loading times. For PC, GameStar acknowledged initial anti-cheat issues but anticipated a fix, and XboxEra noted that despite frame rate drops and replay glitches, the gameplay remained “smooth.” However, technical flaws were prevalent across platforms. On PS5, CD-Action criticized longer load times and menu bugs, while Gamer.nl and Gfinity pointed to animation issues, goalkeeper AI shortcomings, and crashes. GRYOnline.pl attributed glitches to HyperMotion’s procedural structure, and VG247 highlighted Career Mode bugs affecting progression. On Xbox Series X, SpazioGames noted occasional frame rate drops, and XboxEra mentioned replay issues despite overall smoothness. PC users faced challenges with GameStar’s initial anti-cheat hurdles, while Multiplayer.it on PS4 reported graphical bugs requiring future fixes. VideoGamer and PlayStation Universe also criticized slow menus and freezing, respectively, underscoring persistent instability in core mechanics. The overall consensus reflects a game that balances technical strengths with notable flaws. While MeuPlayStation, Vandal, and TheLoadout celebrated stability and performance on PS5, critics like Gamer.nl and IGN Italia emphasized unresolved AI and animation issues. On Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox and MondoXbox highlighted smooth execution, but SpazioGames and XboxEra noted minor hiccups. PC and PS4 versions faced initial hurdles, with GameStar and Multiplayer.it pointing to anti-cheat and graphical bugs, respectively. Despite these issues, the game’s core mechanics and engine improvements—such as Hypermotion V2 and cross-platform play—were widely praised, indicating that while technical performance varied by platform, FIFA 23 generally delivered a polished experience with room for refinement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

FIFA 23’s replay value is mixed—praised for fresh features like "Moments" and varied modes but criticized for stagnant core gameplay, repetitive Career Mode, and pay-to-win flaws, leaving it a polarizing pick for fans.

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.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of FIFA 23 is mixed but leans toward positive, with several critics highlighting its enduring appeal through new features and modes. Many reviewers praise the introduction of "Moments" in Ultimate Team, which adds structured challenges and rewards to keep players engaged offline (IGN Brasil, GameSpot). The Career Mode sees improvements, such as a personality system for Player Career and the ability to take on roles as famous coaches (Gameblog.fr, TheGamer), while the World Cup mode is noted for its depth and potential for future updates (Daily Star, MeuPlayStation). Additionally, modes like Volta Football and Pro Clubs are appreciated for their social and competitive elements, with some critics emphasizing their fun and replayability (XGN, Guardian). The game’s variety of modes—ranging from Quick Play to Seasons and Tournaments—also contributes to its longevity (Twinfinite, Guardian). However, several critics express concerns about the lack of substantial innovation in non-Ultimate Team modes, which could limit long-term engagement. XboxEra and Nintendo Life point out that FIFA 23 feels largely unchanged from previous iterations, with minimal tweaks to core gameplay (XboxEra, Nintendo Life). The Career Mode is criticized for being repetitive and lacking depth, despite minor updates (Xbox Achievements, MGG Spain). Meanwhile, the Volta Football and Pro Clubs modes face issues like weak AI defenders or a lack of meaningful changes (SpazioGames, Multiplayer.it). Critics also highlight that while "Moments" adds structure to Ultimate Team, its rewards are seen as underwhelming compared to the time investment required (Gfinity, VGC). The overemphasis on Ultimate Team’s microtransactions and pay-to-win mechanics further detracts from replay value for some players (Xbox Achievements, WellPlayed). The overall consensus among critics is that FIFA 23 offers decent replay value, particularly for fans of the series who prioritize Ultimate Team and its evolving content. While many praise the game’s variety of modes and incremental improvements (e.g., Career Mode’s personality system, World Cup additions), others feel it lacks the transformative updates needed to justify a purchase for returning players (Ragequit.gr, Multiplayer.it). The divide between casual and competitive players is also noted, with some finding the online components polarizing (LevelUp). Ultimately, while FIFA 23 retains its core appeal through familiar mechanics and new features like "Moments," the lack of broader innovation in non-Ultimate Team modes leaves room for criticism. As GameSpot and VG247 note, the game’s replayability hinges on individual preferences, with some finding it endlessly engaging and others feeling it falls short of expectations.

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.

The overall reception of FIFA 23 highlights several positive aspects that resonate with many critics. Multiple reviewers praised its gameplay improvements, particularly the HyperMotion V2 engine, which enhances realism and fluidity in match dynamics (IGN Italia, Gameblog.fr). The inclusion of women’s football leagues and expanded World Cup mode was celebrated as a significant step forward, offering more variety for players (GAMINGbible, WellPlayed). Critics like MGG Spain and TrueGaming lauded the game as one of the best in the series, emphasizing its balance between simulation and arcade-style play, while The Games Machine highlighted its visually impressive presentation. Additionally, the game’s comprehensive content library and improved set-piece mechanics were noted as strong points by several outlets, including Jeuxvideo.com and Vandal. These positives suggest that FIFA 23 delivers a polished and engaging football experience for fans of the genre. However, numerous critics pointed out significant shortcomings that detract from its overall appeal. A recurring theme was the lack of innovation, with many calling it a "rushed" or "safe" iteration that fails to introduce groundbreaking changes (New Game Network, Metro GameCentral). The reliance on microtransactions in Ultimate Team and the pay-to-win mechanics were heavily criticized by outlets like MeuPlayStation and The Loadout, while IGN and Gamer.nl noted fundamental issues with gameplay polish. Some reviewers, such as Nintendo Life, found the Switch version underwhelming, particularly for those not invested in specific leagues like English or French women’s football. Additionally, VG247 and Push Square highlighted frustrations with unbalanced mechanics, goalkeeper behavior, and UI decisions, suggesting that while the game is technically sound, it struggles to elevate itself beyond incremental updates. Despite mixed reactions, the overall consensus among critics leans toward a balanced view: FIFA 23 is seen as a solid, enjoyable entry in the series but not a revolutionary one. While some outlets like MGG Spain and Vgames argue it’s the best FIFA ever, others such as IGN and New Game Network express disappointment with its lack of ambition. The game’s strengths—such as improved graphics, gameplay mechanics, and expanded content—contrast with its flaws, including repetitive modes and exploitative monetization. Critics like GAMINGbible and GameSpew acknowledge it as a "positive step forward," while IGN Adria and SECTOR.sk note that it serves as a fitting farewell to the FIFA brand before EA’s rebranding. Ultimately, FIFA 23 is viewed as a competent, if unremarkable, continuation of the series, with its value depending on player expectations and prior investment in the franchise.

TL;DR

FIFA 23 delivers polished gameplay and bold new features but feels like a safe, incremental update plagued by microtransactions, unbalanced mechanics, and missed opportunities for innovation—a competent yet underwhelming finale for the franchise.

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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