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Review of FIFA 21 on Nintendo Switch

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Oct 2020
Cover image of FIFA 21 on Switch
Gamefings Score: 2
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 09 Oct 2020
Genre: Sports
Developer: EA Vancouver, EA Romania
Publisher: EA Sports

Introduction

In the world of sports gaming, few series have the prestigious legacy of FIFA. Each year, like clockwork, fans await the latest installment, hoping for advancements that will transform their gaming experience from mundane matches to heart-pounding, jaw-dropping showdowns. Enter FIFA 21, the latest player in the game that promises a lot but delivers a 'Legacy Edition'-sized burden instead. With the Nintendo Switch edition showcased as a mere upgrade rather than a new experience, players are left wondering if they should even lace up their virtual cleats. Spoiler alert: it's not looking good, folks.

Gameplay

FIFA 21 on the Nintendo Switch truly embodies the phrase 'if it isn't broken, don't fix it'-and boy, is it ever broken. Gamers accustomed to revolutionary advances in the gameplay from FIFA 20 to FIFA 21 might be left with the empty feeling you get after losing to a first-time player who scored a half-field goal against you. Like most sequels that claim innocence while hiding under the dubious blanket of 'Legacy Edition,' this version showcases little more than roster updates and a few new kits. The Ultimate Team mode comes into view like a showbiz child star-arrogant, promising more than it can deliver, and ultimately disappointing. EA has introduced a co-op feature, allowing players to team up with friends. But let's be honest, even your smartest Twitch-loving buddy wouldn't want to split their time between futsal-style matches and debates over whether to buy FIFA points or save their lunch money. And while Career Mode does introduce a muddle of new features-like revamping the training system and putting more focus on developing young stars-it remains a tiring experience for players who are desperately craving something innovative. Perhaps a revamp of the emotional connection between the players would be something to aspire to, because honestly, who wouldn't prefer a side story of David Beckham trying to make a comeback at age 45? Now that's a character arc I'd root for! As for VOLTA Football, which aims to capture the essence of street soccer, it doesn't escape the mediocrity either. With the ongoing narrative of our beloved hero Revvy alongside titanic players like Zidane and Henry, the story feels less like a grand adventure and more like watching paint dry while hearing your second cousin's mixtape in the background. Add in a paid DLC and staleness washes over what little life was infused in the gameplay. In short, if you were hoping for a bustling, immersive football extravaganza, you may find yourself reminiscing fondly about good ol' FIFA 20. Because unless you want to suffer electrical shocks in the form of microtransactions, FIFA 21 is an experience you might want to steer clear of.

Graphics

Regarding graphics, if you're a die-hard fan looking to bask in photorealistic splendor during your triumphant virtual matches-you indeed might want to look away. The Nintendo Switch version feels like a pixelated version of its high-def siblings. It's akin to a beautiful painting that someone accidentally spilled coffee on; you can still appreciate the art, but every little stain reminds you that it just doesn't have the same impact. The transitions between cutscenes reveal character models that are less appealing than they should be; it feels like they were hastily completed during the last week of final exams. Rather than capturing those breathless moments in football, the only thing players might have captured is disappointment when realistic gestures turn into clumsy, exaggerated flailing. Even the crowd looks like a bumbling collection of cardboard cutouts, cheering with hollow enthusiasm that mirrors our emotional response after playing this.

Conclusion

In conclusion, FIFA 21 for the Nintendo Switch is like that friend who endlessly reminisces about the 'good old days' but hasn't contributed anything magical to the conversation lately. With hardly any new content to harvest, it's honestly hard to justify its existence in an already packed football gaming ecosystem. If the thrilling prospect of tired mechanics and repetitive gameplay sounds appealing, then by all means-suit up. Otherwise, look elsewhere for your virtual football fix. So, kick back, grab a polished tribute to a bygone era- a real old-school console or even a dusty football under your bed-and indulge in the classic experience you can actually enjoy without the cloud of disappointment that comes with the latest FIFA installment. Because at the end of the day, no amount of packaging can mask the plain truth: less really is less.

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