FIFA 22 Review (Smoquency)
FIFA 22 is yet another disappointing entry in the long-running series. While the visuals are polished and the gameplay feels smooth at times, these positives are overshadowed by a mountain of flaws that make the game frustrating and unenjoyable.
The AI is as frustrating as ever, with defenders often standing around cluelessly and attackers making nonsensical runs. Tackling feels pointless, as the ball frequently bounces back to the opposition, and the randomness of gameplay moments makes it feel like skill has little to do with success. Goalkeepers are either superhuman or completely useless, with no middle ground, leading to inconsistent and infuriating matches.
Career Mode, a staple for many players, remains stagnant and outdated. The menus are clunky and slow, the design is uninspired, and the features feel like they've been copy-pasted from previous decades. Transfers are unrealistic, training is boring, and the lack of meaningful updates makes the mode feel like an afterthought.
The introduction of HyperMotion technology was hyped as a game-changer, but in reality, it adds little to the experience. The animations are often awkward, and the gameplay still suffers from the same issues that have plagued the series for years.
On top of all this, the game is riddled with microtransactions. Ultimate Team continues to prioritize monetization over player enjoyment, with endless packs and overpriced items that make the mode feel like a cash grab. The focus on cosmetics, like countless kits and stadium customizations, feels excessive and unnecessary.
Overall, FIFA 22 is a prime example of EA's complacency and focus on profit over quality. It's a game that looks good on the surface but fails to deliver a satisfying football experience. Longtime fans of the series deserve better.