Electronic Arts introduces additional monetization elements to EA Sports FC 25

Electronic Arts is introducing a new monetization level in its primary soccer game series with a Premium Tier in EA Sports FC 25.

According to VG247, this new level will complement the existing free tier, which provides players with card packs, players, and cosmetics as they progress through challenges. Upon reaching a specific reward milestone, players will have the opportunity to access additional Premium Tier rewards.

Although the pricing for this Premium Tier is not yet disclosed, EA mentioned that it can be unlocked using Ultimate Team coins earned in-game or FC Points, which are bought with real money.

Ultimate Team design director Richard Waltz assured VG247 that items in the paid tier will also be available to earn in the free tier.

EA Sports FC 25 will be available on PC and consoles starting September 27.

For years, Electronic Arts has faced criticism regarding the monetization of its soccer titles, previously under the FIFA brand and now as EA Sports FC.

Alongside game sales, revenue is generated through the sale of FC Points for Ultimate Team, which made up 29% of EA's total business by 2021. The company stopped reporting Ultimate Team revenue in 2022.

Legal controversies have arisen due to the randomized card packs, leading to bans on selling FC Points or the Ultimate Edition of their games in Belgium.

Last year, EA and Sony were mandated to pay €10,800 to Austrian players for purchasing Ultimate Team card packs after courts ruled these violated gambling laws. However, the Netherlands' highest court later found that Ultimate Team did not constitute gambling in a similar dispute.