A big change is coming to FIFA 21: the game will soon let you impose strict limits on the amount you play and spend.
The decision comes at a time when EA is under increasing pressure from governments, parents, players and class action lawsuits over the controversial FIFA Ultimate Team mode and its impact on children.
In patch notes for FIFA 21 issued this morning, EA mentioned the previously unannounced FIFA Playtime, which is described as “a new suite of tools that enable players to have more control and visibility over how they play”. You can access it through the main menu, FIFA Ultimate Team and Volta Football.
The patch notes do not go into further detail, but Eurogamer can reveal the FIFA Playtime tool goes live in-game today on PC, and on Tuesday, 17th November on consoles.
We can also reveal what FIFA Playtime does: it’s designed to be a tool for parents and players to help them control various aspects of the game, including time spent playing, spending, social communication, and access to games by rating.