If you've been hoping to indulge in some cross-play once FIFA 21 launches, there's some bad news, which also applies to console cross-generation play.
A fan on Twitter enquired whether PlayStation 5 owners will be able to play with friends who own PS4, but the answer doesn't exactly bode well for their relationship.
"You won't be able to play across console generations or cross-play in FIFA 21. However, you will be able to carry over your FUT progression from PS4 to PS5 and Xbox 1 to Xbox Series X", EA replied.
Considering that most games use cross-play as one of flagship features, it's a bit peculiar EA won't be including it in FIFA 21. Consoles should be pretty evenly matched and most PC players use gamepads so it's not like there's a controller advantage as is the case with shooters, for instance.
To make matters worse, Apex Legends, an actual shooter which is published by EA, is getting cross-play soon. Whether this is EA's lack of investment or just lack of interest in bridging platforms is unclear at the moment.
What's perhaps even more peculiar is the lack of cross-gen support, and the whole deal with FIFA 21's dual-entitlement, i.e. ability to upgrade from PS4/XOne to PS5/XSX version of the game for free, somewhat loses in value because of it.
PS4 and Xbox One owners who plan on getting FIFA 21 with friends are likely to think twice about upgrading unless their friends aren't planning on getting PS5/XSX as well. We'd normally mention the issue of a smaller playerbase at the beginning of a console's cycle too, but this is FIFA - football always finds a playerbase.
Thanks, IGN .
FIFA 20, EA Sports' new instalment in the football sim franchise
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