FIFA 18 has received an update in honor of next month’s 2018 FIFA World Cup taking place in Russia. The free update went live earlier today and features a host of new World Cup-themed content. More than simply adding fanfare elements in light of Football’s biggest celebration, the update makes some changes in the form revamped versions of existing modes as well as few new ones.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia mode features the 32 nations that qualified for the tournament as well as officially licensed balls, and all 12 Russian stadiums
#WorldCup HYPE!
Play it NOW in #FIFA18 ?? https://t.co/wJPWOiVG79 pic.twitter.com/YOjM3YNQ9C
— EA SPORTS FIFA (@EASPORTSFIFA) May 29, 2018
The custom FIFA World Cup tournament lets players create a customized version of the event with a selection of national teams that haven’t qualified for the real life version. FIFA World Cup Kickoff is similar to an exhibition match except players can make use of all the cosmetic World Cup goodies including jerseys, stadiums, and teams to create their dream team.
Last but not least, FIFA World Cup Ultimate Team revamps the Ultimate Team mode with players from the 32 qualified national teams as well as legendary players. The mode can be played both offline and online. Team chemistry won’t depend on league participation, but instead on region and country of origin. Players stats have also been refreshed to reflect performance from this year’s season.
The update is free for all existing owners on PS4, PC, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch. A trailer was released late last month and you can view it again below to get a taste of what the update has to offer.
Interestingly, EA also ran its own World Cup simulation using the new update and the French team came out on top. Time will tell if France can replicate its virtual performance in real life next month?