Expansion Analysis
There are more than 140 leagues containing more than 480 divisions. There are approximately 7,000 clubs that are affiliated with a league within the English football league system. Soccer video games hold immense popularity in England, reflecting the nation's deep passion for football. In England, where football is a cultural phenomenon and a national obsession, soccer video games serve as a virtual platform for fans to engage with their favorite sport. The competitive gameplay, strategic depth, and multiplayer modes offered resonate strongly with English gamers, making soccer video games a cornerstone of the gaming landscape in England. The popularity of soccer video games underscores the enduring allure of football as a source of entertainment and community engagement for gamers across the country. "EA Sports FC 24 ranked first among the top-selling video games in the United Kingdom in 2023 with sales of roughly 2.39 million copies" (Clement, 2023).
In the English gaming market, when it comes to sports simulation games, two major competitors stand out: Electronic Arts (EA) Sports with the FC Sports series, formerly FIFA, and Konami with Pro Evolution Soccer (PES).
1. The FC Sports series is widely regarded as one of the dominant franchises in the soccer gaming genre worldwide, including in England. The FC games are known for their realism, licensing agreements with major soccer leagues and clubs, and immersive gameplay experience. In England, where soccer is a passion for millions, FC games enjoy a strong following among gamers of all ages. The franchise's popularity is fueled by its comprehensive gameplay, online features, and consistent updates that reflect real-world soccer events. "FIFA 21 was the biggest selling game of 2020 in 16 of the 19 countries surveyed, including the UK, Spain, Germany, and Italy" (Batchelor, 2021).
2. The PES series has been a longstanding competitor to FC Sports in the soccer gaming genre. PES games are praised for their technical gameplay mechanics, tactical depth, and dedicated fan base. While the FC Series holds a dominant position globally, PES has historically enjoyed a strong following in certain regions, including parts of Europe. In England, PES competes with FC by offering alternative features that appeal to a segment of soccer gaming enthusiasts.
The FC series holds a stronger market share compared to PES. FC's extensive licensing agreements with English Premier League teams, including official kits, player likenesses, and stadium recreations, contribute significantly to its popularity among English gamers. The broad appeal of FC Sports has solidified its position as the preferred soccer gaming experience for many in England.