This year EA is rebranding FIFA franchise following a licensing dispute with the organization, instead opting to release EA Sports FC 24 this year. It’s a change most fans are taking in stride – What’s in a name, right? – but it turns out there are some wider consequences to EA dropping the FIFA license.

　　Most notably, it seems EA has pulled the entire FIFA franchise from every major digital storefront, including Steam, Epic Games Store, and the Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch digital stores. FIFA 22 and 23 may still be available through EA Play, but that likely won’t last. Of course, if you have the games on disc you can still play them, but yeah, as of now one of the most popular video game franchises, with over 325 million copies sold, has essentially been erased from digital storefronts. Here’s hoping EA Sports FC 24 is great, because it’s going to be the only option for a lot of folks.

　　EA's annual football game, now called EA FC, no longer sports the FIFA name in its title. All prior entries in the series have been delisted from all major storefronts.

　　Every FIFA title from 14 up to 23 can't be purchased anymore. FIFA 22 & 23 can still be played via EA Play. pic.twitter.com/VupU3Off44

　　— MauroNL (@MauroNL3) September 26, 2023

　　Everyone knows any individual release in an annualized sports franchise is kind of disposable, but it’s still surprising to see EA acknowledge it in such an explicit way. Just the cost of doing business I guess. Haven’t been keeping up with EA Sports FC 24? Here an official description…

　　“EA Sports FC 24 marks the beginning of the future of football. Built on innovation and authenticity, feel closer to the game in the most true-to-football experience yet with the best players from the biggest clubs, leagues and competitions around the globe.

　　Experience unparalleled realism in every match thanks to three cutting-edge technologies: HyperMotionV, PlayStyles optimized by Opta and the enhanced Frostbite Engine. With more than 19,000 fully licensed players, 700 teams and 30 leagues including the UEFA Men’s and Women’s Champions League, EA SPORTS FC 24 brings unrivaled authenticity to the pitch.”

　　EA Sports FC 24 launches on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, and Switch on September 29, although it’s already available for those who bought the game’s special editions. What do you think footie fans? Sticking with the series despite the branding change?