Typically at this time of year, we’d be expecting to hear news on Electronic Arts’ next FIFA title but nope. FIFA 22 is firmly keeping itself in the spotlight. The game is currently part of May’s roster of free PlayStation Plus games and soon, FIFA 22 will release a major new feature.
Up until now, FIFA players have only been able to play online with those using the same console type but the days of having PlayStation matchmaking lobbies and Xbox matchmaking lobbies are finally coming to an end. Keeping up with the times, FIFA 22 is set to launch cross-play.
Take a look at this incredible compilation of wins and fails from the FIFA franchise.
EA have announced that cross-play support for FIFA 22 will come to the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and the Stadia versions of the game, although a release date has not yet been announced. For now, FIFA 22 fans will have to settle for EA’s promise of “in the near future”.
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Cross-play is currently in testing for two modes: Online Seasons and Online Friendlies. EA have reassured players that it won’t affect matchmaking times regardless of whether you choose to use cross-play, and will simply become “just another part of the game”.
Electronic Arts said, “While we want to enable our players to play with as many friends and others as possible, we limited the test to these two modes with the aim of reducing the chance for introducing new issues into the game.”
They went on to explain, “We are confident that the game data and feedback that we get from these two modes will help inform how Cross-play could further be implemented in future titles.”
When the feature launches, you’ll be able to toggle cross-play on and off using a widget from the menu screen. This will also help you search for friends on other console platforms, block other players, or add friends. You’ll also be able to matchmake via location. We may have a short wait to go, but it's a good sign for the future of the franchise. Cross-play should be a given in FIFA 23. Or should that be EA Sports FC 23?