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What is the FIFA series of games?
FIFA is a series of video games based on the association of the same name. It features virtual versions of real teams and players. Users can choose their favourite teams and players to control in games against other teams. Different FIFA games have different gameplay options.
The series began in 1993 with the final game released in 2022. Electronic Arts have continued with their own series of football games called EA Sports FC that is separate from the FIFA series.
What is the FIFA age rating?
The FIFA series of video games have a PEGI 3 age rating in the UK and an ESRB rating of E for everyone in the US.
Electronic Arts’ terms and conditions state that players must be 13 or over to play online features in any FIFA games. FIFA is free to play (with subscription) through EA Play on all major consoles, as well as on PC via the EA App and Steam.
What's great about FIFA video games?
If you or your child are passionate about football, this realistic football simulation game offers more than enough in terms of content and features thousands of players, and the biggest Leagues, Clubs and competitions around the world to create an exciting and engaging sports experience.
From FIFA Ultimate Team mode where you can build your dream squad to playing with a group of friends in the street-focused mode VOLTA FOOTBALL, and casual family sessions to esports competitions there are many ways to play the game.
How it can support children’s development
The FIFA football series has been used by coaches in the past to help children learn about how to play the game and grow their ‘tactical understanding‘. For those who play in the real world, it can be a way to improve their understanding of the game and all it entails.
What should you watch out for on FIFA?
There are certain elements (like in all games) that you need to pay extra attention to.
Chat functionality
While children love to interact while playing through the chat functions, it’s important to make sure children are aware of how to mute the function if they hear something that is inappropriate and report it.
If they are playing with people they don’t know, it’s important to discuss what is and isn’t appropriate to share (see more advice – Are they online gaming with strangers?).
In-game spending
FIFA games allow users to buy things to enhance gameplay. To avoid unintended purchases, make sure you agree with your child what they can spend beforehand. You can also use controls on the consoles they use to set spending limits or add in passwords to control spending on the platform.
What safety features do FIFA games have?
FIFA Playtime
Once you have opted into the FIFA Playtime feature, you can keep an eye on how much time your child spends in the game. This includes the number of matches played, purchases of FUT Packs and the number of FIFA points purchased overall.
The feature allows you to keep a closer eye and stay in control of interactions on the game.
Block and mute function on chat
If you or your child come across abuse, harassment or cheating in the game, there are a range of ways you can report things.
You can use the reporting functions in the game as well.
How to keep your child's gaming positive
Encourage children to take regular breaks
You can do this by setting an alarm or using the controls on the console or platform that they are using to help them better manage how much time they spend gaming. See our gaming how-to guides to get started.
Ask them to play in a communal area
This will help you engage with their gameplay and step in if you hear something on the audio chat that is inappropriate.
Empower them to play mindfully
When children play on their own, or for too long, this can affect their mood and mental state. Frustration, not wanting to stop or even anger can be symptoms we notice in our children when they have been playing (read our ‘What to do if gaming gets out of hand‘ article for more advice).