Electronic Arts (EA) has decided to remove its FIFA games, including FIFA 23, from digital storefronts such as Steam and console stores. This means that players will no longer be able to purchase the games from these platforms, although physical copies can still be found. The removal of these games from sale seems to be related to a licensing issue, as last year EA and FIFA ended their long-running licensing partnership. EA has rebranded its soccer simulation franchise as EA Sports FC, and the first entry under this new brand is set to be released on September 29.
While players can still access the FIFA games through EA Play, the publisher’s subscription service, the decision to remove them from digital storefronts may disappoint those who had not yet purchased the games. The notice on FIFA 23’s Steam page states that the game is unlisted and will not appear in search at the request of the publisher. EA has not provided a clear explanation for this decision, and further clarification is being sought from the publisher.
In conclusion, EA has pulled its FIFA games from digital storefronts, making them no longer available for purchase on platforms such as Steam. However, players who already own the games can still download and play them, either through EA Play or using physical copies. The removal of these games from sale is believed to be due to a licensing issue, as EA ended its partnership with FIFA last year. EA has rebranded its franchise as EA Sports FC, and the first game under this new brand will be released soon.