EA Sports FC27 raises age rating to 16 amid microtransaction concerns

EA Sports has released FC27, the latest installment in its popular football video game series. This edition introduces a significant change to its recommended age rating, which has risen from 3 years to 16 years. While the content lacks violence or inappropriate language, the age increase is driven by the inclusion of microtransactions. These systems encourage players to spend real money on points, benefits, or random reward boxes.

European institutions and consumer groups, such as the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) and Spanish associations like OCU, have expressed concerns regarding these mechanics. They argue that such features can foster addiction in young users and increase the propensity for online gambling and betting.

In addition to these structural changes, the game introduces ‘The Grounds,’ an ambitious open-world feature designed to simulate street football. This mode aims to move away from traditional stadium-based matches to offer a more spontaneous, social experience featuring urban pitches and improvised encounters, responding to community requests for a less rigid gameplay style.