Overview of FIFA Rivals
FIFA Rivals is an engaging mobile soccer game available for free on both iOS and Android platforms. The game features optional player and gear NFTs that are minted using the Mythos Chain, which operates on Polkadot technology. Developed by Mythical Games, the same studio that created NFL Rivals, FIFA Rivals was launched two weeks ago. We have been testing the game to evaluate its potential worth for users.
Potential Size of the Game
Given the vast audience of soccer enthusiasts worldwide, Mythical Games has expressed optimism that FIFA Rivals could reach a player base twenty times larger than that of NFL Rivals, its previous blockbuster title that debuted two years ago.
Gameplay Experience
At its core, FIFA Rivals provides a simplified, crypto-integrated version of the popular mobile game Score! Hero. Initially, this design does not present any major issues, especially with its robust online features. However, after a few weeks of playing, the repetitive nature of the gameplay diminishes its appeal.
Building Your Team
In FIFA Rivals, players assemble their teams by acquiring players through virtual packs and then compete against others online. This system is reminiscent of the Ultimate Team mode in EA FC, where each player possesses distinct stats that can improve with their rarity. Unlike EA FC, FIFA Rivals allows players to enhance their cards for better stats, provided they have multiple copies of the same card and enough in-game currency.
NFT Integration
Players can elevate a card to its maximum five-star level by upgrading it five times. Once this upgrade is achieved, the player card can be transformed into an NFT using the in-game currency by hitting the “Transform” button. This process opens the door for trading the card on the Mythical Market.
Rewards System
Players can earn packs, in-game currency, and new players by engaging in various tasks, competing, and logging in daily. During my two weeks of experience, I found the progression enjoyable and rewarding, often feeling like I was opening new packs after each match.
On the Field Mechanics
The gameplay on the field resembles a turn-based soccer experience, where you control player movements, passes, and shots by swiping your finger across the screen. The first team to score two goals wins the match. This aspect draws parallels to Score! Hero, which is not necessarily a negative comparison.
Gameplay Dynamics
While Score! Hero presents a variety of challenging scenarios requiring creative strategies, FIFA Rivals tends to repetitively recycle similar attacks, leading to a quick decline in engagement. The inclusion of a “super ability” that guarantees goals by clearing the field feels like a cheap way to secure victories.
Time Pressure and Challenges
FIFA Rivals introduces a time constraint for players to make their moves, which adds an exciting layer of speed to the game. However, this can also lead to frustrations, particularly when controls do not register properly. I encountered issues with camera movement, where my swipes were often ignored.
Match Balance Issues
Throughout my first 20 matches, I secured numerous wins until I faced an opponent with a significantly stronger squad. This loss felt unjust, as the disparity in team strength overshadowed my efforts. Such balance issues are common in fantasy sports games, where players can invest money to gain competitive advantages, leading to an imbalance that can be disheartening.
Cost of Top Players
To acquire top players like Luis Suarez, who led to my defeat, I would need to spend $34 on the Mythical Market for an NFT. Additionally, items that increase player stats can also be expensive, with one recently selling for $4. To obtain Lionel Messi, considered one of the greatest players ever, players must secure all five fragments needed to craft him, with one fragment recently priced at $131. The cost of high-end items can be steep, especially for a free-to-play game.
Conclusion on FIFA Rivals
Overall, FIFA Rivals presents a solid gaming experience, featuring an enjoyable pack grind and gameplay influenced by a classic mobile soccer title. However, its current execution does not maintain long-term engagement. If Mythical Games can enhance the gameplay to retain player interest, FIFA Rivals may emerge as a significant title in the soccer gaming landscape. For now, it has missed the goal, and its future success remains to be seen.
