What is the role of the "FIFA Points" microtransaction system in FIFA Ultimate Team?

What is the role of the “FIFA Points” microtransaction system in FIFA Ultimate Team?

Understanding the Role of FIFA Points in FIFA Ultimate Team

In the world of virtual football, FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) has emerged as a popular game mode in the FIFA series. It allows players to build their dream team from scratch, using virtual currency to buy and sell players. One of the key elements of this system is the “FIFA Points” microtransaction system. This article aims to shed light on the role of FIFA Points in FUT and how they impact the overall gaming experience.

What are FIFA Points?

FIFA Points are a form of virtual currency used in the FIFA series, specifically in the FIFA Ultimate Team mode. They are purchased with real-world money and can be used to buy packs of players or enter tournaments. The more points a player has, the more opportunities they have to enhance their team.

The Role of FIFA Points in FIFA Ultimate Team

The primary role of FIFA Points in FUT is to accelerate progress. Building a competitive team in FUT can be a time-consuming process. Players need to earn coins, another form of in-game currency, through playing matches, completing challenges, or selling players. However, this process can be slow and tedious. FIFA Points offer a shortcut, allowing players to buy packs of players directly.

Packs contain a random selection of players, and the quality of these players can vary. Some packs might contain highly-rated players, while others might contain lower-rated players. The element of chance involved in opening packs has led to comparisons with gambling.

FIFA Points also play a crucial role in the game’s economy. They represent a significant source of revenue for EA Sports, the developer of the FIFA series. According to a report by SuperData, a Nielsen company, FIFA’s microtransaction revenue surpassed $1 billion in 2020.

Controversies Surrounding FIFA Points

The FIFA Points system has not been without controversy. Critics argue that it promotes a “pay-to-win” model, where players who spend more money have a significant advantage over those who don’t. This has led to calls for greater regulation of microtransactions in video games.

In 2020, the House of Lords in the UK called for the classification of loot boxes, which are essentially what player packs are, as gambling. They argued that these mechanics encourage children to gamble and should be regulated under the Gambling Act 2005.

In response to these criticisms, EA Sports has made some changes to the FIFA Points system. In FIFA 21, they introduced a feature that allows players to see the odds of getting high-rated players in packs. However, many players feel that more needs to be done to ensure a level playing field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, FIFA Points play a significant role in FIFA Ultimate Team. They allow players to accelerate their progress and build stronger teams. However, their impact on the game’s balance and the controversy surrounding their use highlight the need for ongoing discussions about the role of microtransactions in video games.