Bruce Dias 
From FIFA International Soccer to FIFA 23, FIFA has built a rich world of football managers, coaches, and players, and we’ve loved every minute of playing the best from the world of football. Each addition to the iconic football video game franchise has been worthy of celebration.
Over the years, FIFA has continuously improved the graphical rendering and brought the characters to life. From humble beginnings to full-feature titles, we look back at the unforgettable moments and lasting impacts of the franchise, and FIFA games to play to celebrate the virtual football culture.
Ultimate FIFA Games Ranked
FIFA International Soccer (1993)
The game that started it all, FIFA International Soccer seems almost unrecognizable from the game franchise it is today. FIFA International Soccer was the first in the genre to utilize an isometric viewpoint and marked the start of a revolution. What started as an honest-to-goodness game evolved into something big.
FIFA International Soccer, released in 1993, introduced players to the relatively obscure world of virtual football. While the game lacked the real names and images of the players, it set the DNA for the game from the very beginning that would carry throughout the franchise.
FIFA Soccer 95 (1994)
An expansion pack from the original and the title that introduced the FIFA franchise to the world stage, FIFA Soccer ‘95 was nothing short of ground breaking. This title is notable for taking FIFA games to new heights with the introduction of real player names – another first in the genre.
FIFA Soccer 95 was a groundbreaking addition to the franchise. It elevated the authentic and realistic profile of virtual football. The new feature allowed players to fill the boots of their favorite players, and thus offered fast-paced and exciting gameplay that characterized the rest of the series. Â
FIFA 97 (1996)
The first expansion of the game, FIFA 97 was the title that made playing the game more memorable. It allowed the player to take on the role of a manager, too. You could customize several aspects of the game and therefore introduce the player to the nitty-gritties that go on before a football match.
FIFA 97 changed the game. It saw the introduction of indoor soccer mode that allowed the player to become part of the thrills of a real football match. Players could customize games to have up to five-a-side matches in enclosed arenas that let the player practice for bigger games. Â
FIFA 2001 (2000)
Establishing the cinematic ambitions of the franchise, FIFA 2001 brought with it the inclusion of real player licenses. It allowed players to control the biggest stars in football at the time – a system that worked out well for the game and added to the authenticity and immersion feature.
FIFA 2001 also introduced a soundtrack that left a lasting impression on the lovers of the FIFA games. The soundtrack features the biggest stars in pop culture, and for the games to come, it has become part of the FIFA experience. It adds to the appeal and atmosphere created for the game.
FIFA 07 (2006)
Along with the huge technical advances of the time, FIFA 07 delivered memorable features and innovations. It is one of those FIFA games that hold a special place in the hearts of those who followed the franchise through its revolution. It was a major step to make the game closer to the real-life experience.
FIFA 07 introduced Interactive Leagues features that set the stage for a whole new level of competitive virtual football that enhanced the overall experience. Like its predecessor, 07 featured an unforgettable soundtrack that advocated for the franchise to a new age of gamers.
FIFA 09 (2008)
A turning point in the growing portfolio of the series, FIFA 09 brought the Ultimate Team mode to the masses. This mode placed greater control and responsibility in the hands of the player. It allowed them to assemble their dream teams, and this paved the way for the next revolution in virtual football.
FIFA 09 quickly became popular. So much so that the Ultimate Team mode evolved into a standalone mode. It added depth to playing virtual football by allowing the players to explore the intrigues of assembling and playing a title winning team. The experience was further elevated with the introduction of collectible player cards.
FIFA 11 (2010)
Effectively, an amplified version of its predecessor, FIFA 11, brought a significant change in the experience. The gameplay was enhanced with better graphics and game mechanics. FIFA 11 was a preview of the best years of the franchise. It was a player-centered addition that elevated the team manager element in the game.
FIFA 11 lets the players customize the team’s tactics, formation, and player styles. It also introduced the Player Career Mode, where players could manage the character’s journey through the world of football. FIFA 11 revitalized the immersion and unique perspective that helped shape the game’s future.
FIFA 13 (2012)
The iconic soundtrack of FIFA 13 left a lasting impression. Players were treated to a diverse and engaging selection of tracks that elevated the overall experience and atmosphere of the game. The addition of music created memorable moments off the virtual pitch and became a pass-time.
FIFA 13 also introduced the No Touch Dribbling System. These skillful gameplay mechanics allowed players to play more freely and do realistic dribbles. The game graphics, too, were improved to render the gameplay better and as close as possible to real life. It reflected the dynamic nature of real-world football.
FIFA 14 (2013)
Adding many of the deep customization options and rich systems the franchise has become known for, FIFA 14 made history when it introduced the World Cup Mode. The players could experience more thrill in the world’s most prestigious tournament along with normal gameplay.
FIFA 14 represented the World Cup in all its glory. It brought us the concept of Legends in the Ultimate Team mode, where the concept of creating star-studded teams was further improved. The line-up was now complete with the addition of the likes of Pelé and Diego Maradona, who brought nostalgia to the game.
FIFA 19 (2018)
Once considered the single best FIFA title, FIFA 19 gave players the ultimate dose of realism. This title was designed for immersion like never before. The attention to detail, graphics, realistic player movements, and improved game mechanics made the experience even more authentic on the virtual pitch.
FIFA 19 offered many standout features, including the addition of UEFA Champions League, the world’s most prestigious club football competition. By expanding the player universe, FIFA 19 took the game to a new level of excitement, allowing players to get a taste of the grandest football stages.
As we conclude our exhilarating journey through the evolution of FIFA games, it’s evident that this beloved franchise has continually raised the bar for virtual soccer experiences. From the early days of pixelated pitches to the immersive realism of modern gameplay, FIFA has fascinated gamers worldwide.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the series, the spirit of competition and the love for the beautiful game unites us all in the virtual stadiums of FIFA.
