FIFA 20was released to a mixed reception with some players praising changes while others found the new mechanics that were introduced adding to longstanding issues. Despite someconflicting opinions onFIFA 20, the game is having some of its features retooled in a way that many would have not expected when it was released in 2019. The Premier League is now enlisting the sounds from the game as it attempts to relaunch its season.
The Premier League is the top tier soccer league in England and is considered by many to be the highest quality league in the world. The 2019/20 season was stopped early due to the coronavirus pandemic and concerns about mass gatherings spreading the virus. The league now looks set to restart on June 17 and although fans can not see the games at their respective stadiums, the league is usingFIFA 20for an innovative solution.
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The upcoming games will be played without any fans in the stadiums and as a result, they will miss the chanting atmosphere that viewers have become accustomed to when watching soccer matches. In response, Sky is implementing the option to turn on the stadium noise that features inFIFA 20. WhileFIFA 20made changesto the formula of the franchise many will be surprised in the way its features are being utilized. The managing director of Sky Sports, Robert Webster, explained the decision and its reasoning, “We want Sky Sports viewers to still feel it all and have the best possible viewing experience - even if they can’t be in the stadiums or watch with their family and friends.” Many fans will appreciate this consideration and it will likely add to the experience.
For manyFIFAis amongst the best Electronic Arts sports franchises, and while the background noise that features in the games may have gone unnoticed previously it may be reappraised given this move. With that said, many players will be grateful to have more reactive commentary through live pundits and commentators speaking over the chanting, as that the automated commentary that features in the game is often criticized. Either way, it is a testament to the sound design that features inFIFAthat it is being used for this cause.
While theFIFAgames have had issues, it seems that the game is still entertaining players and proving useful in unexpected ways. While many wait forFIFA 21, they will be at least happy to have soccer returning to their screens and some keenFIFAplayers may recognize familiar chants.
FIFA 20is available now for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.
