Best FIFA Games of All Time: The Ultimate Ranking of Iconic Titles

Now known as EA FC, FIFA has been a part of the gaming culture since the very beginning, when the game series first started in 1993. Football is one of the most popular sports that a lot of kids get exposed to in their childhood, which undoubtedly played a role in FIFA becoming a marquee game and resulted in casual gamers picking up gaming in general in pursuit of a fun experience. EA FC 25 users in general can check out our comprehensive guide to get the best out of the game.

The franchise has enabled gamers to step into the shoes of their favorite stars and experience what it is like to be them. From Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho to many more football legends, a range of icons have featured on the cover of the game. The franchise that started as FIFA is today called FC, but the rise in its popularity has been consistent since the last two decades. Even today, no other football franchise has been able to come close to FC in terms of providing the best content, features, and experience. In this article, we will go back in time and rank all the FIFA games that were released and how well they were received by the community. Here is the list of the Top 15 best FIFA games of all time ever made, and their ratings, based on some factors.

Ranking Factors

Popularity:- How well received were these games at the time of their release.

Reviews:- Critic reviews and how industry experts perceived them.

Gameplay:- Immersion of the game and how well it functioned without running into problems, such as bugs that can dampen the experience.

Graphics:- How well the games look in terms of visual fidelity, character models, stadiums, and more.

Top 15 Best FIFA Games Of All Time

15. FIFA 06

FIFA 06 is one of the initial editions of the series and is still loved by football fans. One of the most interesting features of the game was its retro section, where gamers could access the biography section of some legendary players and even view iconic clips from the older editions of the game. Not only this, but gamers could also play the first-ever game of the series, ‘FIFA International Soccer,’ in this game. FIFA 06 is the first game to have the Classic XI squad, which consists of exceptional legendary players with sub-par attributes.

You get access to 10,000+ players from major leagues of the game, including La Liga and Serie A. Given the game was released in 2005, its graphics were quite impressive with detailed stadiums and players. One of the key features of this game is its improved ball physics, dribbling and passing techniques. The soundtrack of FIFA 06 was created by Paul Oakenfold himself in collaboration with Oasis, which brought an energetic vibe to the game. Commentary by John Motson and Andy Gray was just the cherry on top. This classic title is still praised for its depth and fun gameplay.

14. FIFA 09

When FIFA 09 came out in 2008, fans could clearly notice the difference in the graphics and gameplay, as they were more enhanced and improved. It was also the first game to introduce the fan-favorite ‘Ultimate Team’ mode, where gamers could build their dream teams using cards of their favorite players and other legends of the game.

It features over 500 licensed teams and leagues along with star players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. You can enjoy it as a single player or even play in the multiplayer modes with friends. FIFA 09 came with smoother controls that made dribbling, shooting and passing feel more natural. It features a special mode called ‘Be a Pro’ where you get to control a single player's career and evolve him into a stronger and skillful asset over multiple seasons. Another mode that is loved by the fans is the Manager mode, where you get to manage everything about a team, from transfers to tactics—everything. Overall FIFA 06 brought many elements and changes along with it that were missing in the previous titles, which made it one of the best FIFA games of all time.

13. FIFA Soccer 08

When FIFA 08 was released, it was hailed as one of the best titles released in the time frame, as it delivered an amazing and fun experience. The refined graphics and gameplay impressed everyone. In addition, it was the first game to feature the ‘Be A Pro’ mode, where players could take control of just one player throughout the match in a first-person camera view. FIFA 08 also introduced the online mode in which gamers could play against other players online.

Its PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions have better-looking graphics and a next-gen engine. Its soundtrack was given by artists like La Rocca and Ivy Queen. With a Metacritic score of 83, FIFA 08 is highly praised for its fabulous gameplay. Moreover, its online mode came with a league that players could enjoy and progress in by winning matches against other players online.

12. EA FC Sports 24

The most notable thing about this game was that it was the first one in the franchise to not be called FIFA. EA Sports and FIFA had licensing agreements due to which the future titles started being named FC. EA Sports FC 24 was different in its own way, as it was the first game to add women footballers to the Ultimate Team. Not only this, but gamers can add the women players to the same team as the male players. This feature impressed everyone in the football community. Moreover, playstyles were also added to the game that provided in-game boosts to players, making their squads more powerful.

In addition, the game also introduced three major technologies, including HyperMotion V, PlayStyles, and the upgraded Frostbite Engine, that brought impressive changes to the title, making it one of the best FIFA games of all time.

11. EA Sports FC 25

FC 25 is the latest and 32nd installment of EA Sports football games. FC 25 got a good response from fans on its release. Although it had few bugs initially, the game offers multiple modes like Rush, 5v5, Ultimate Team, and more. This keeps the gameplay interesting and allows players to explore different things whenever they get bored playing a single mode. The game also rebuilt the career mode with a new menu design and more countries to scout and new youth games. Another big change brought by the game was adding the feature of role, which allows gamers to take more control over how they want each player to play in their position.

The title is available on multiple consoles, including Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One/Series X, and PC. Every match of the game lasts for just 6-7 minutes, allowing users to enjoy the game in breaks from their hectic schedules. It features over 19,000 players, 700+ clubs, and 30+ leagues, but some clubs are renamed due to licensing issues. Overall, it is one of the best FIFA games of all time.

10. FIFA Street 2

FIFA Street 2 was released in 2006 as the sequel to FIFA Street. It is different from the traditional football simulation games. Soundtracks featuring hip-hop music and modes changing from 11v11 to a 4v4 system give the perfect essence of street football. The game offered more fun and mechanics and focused mainly on skills and tricks. The series started with Street 1 and could only go till FIFA Street 2, as the franchise decided to discontinue. The FIFA Street series was just about having fun without any competitive play, and many fans still wish for it to make a return.

Its arcade style sets it apart from other top titles in the list. The controls of FIFA Street 2 are super easy to learn, as the button combos are not complicated and allow you to display cool moves during matches. The main highlight of the game is the ‘Gamebreaker’ feature, which is a supercharged mode that elevates your player's skills and lets them score bonus goals. ‘Rule the Street’ is its primary mode, where you build your team, upgrade skills, and compete with the top-tier players to become an icon yourself.

9. FIFA 07

Oldie yet goldie, featuring the legendary Ronaldinho and English footballing giant Wayne Rooney on the cover, FIFA 07 served as a great addition to the franchise, delivering a fun-filled experience both in player vs. AI and player vs. player experiences. The game also further refined the manager mode, adding new bits and interactive features into the mix. These few changes were great, but the lack of improvements to consoles like PlayStation and Nintendo disappointed the fans. The game is best for those who play it on the Xbox 360.

While its career mode lets you build a career just like other games of the franchise, FIFA 07 also features other interesting modes like the Exhibition, which lets you enter into quick matches, while the Multiplayer option allows you to compete with players online and even your friends. Although it is not as refined as the new-gen titles, the game was quite a popular title during its time and is still considered one of the best FIFA games of all time.

8. FIFA 2001

FIFA 2001 was one of the most anticipated games before its release, as it was the first one to be launched on PlayStation 2, which was a quite popular console during the 90s. The game was released in October 2000 and exceeded all expectations, becoming one of the best football games of the era. It offered stunning visuals, realistic animation, and more detailed stadiums. Although it was criticized for repetitive dialogues in commentary, the game earned a huge fan base in the era and even solidified EA Sports' status in football gaming.

Despite being released during the 2000s, the key features it had still amaze the current-gen players. FIFA 2001 has real crowd sounds, referee whistles, and unique player animations that made every match feel more lively. Interestingly, it also introduced a ‘hack’ feature that leads to intentional fouls during matches. Its PlayStation edition for the UK saw the addition of another unique feature as well that is called the ‘Scratch and Sniff’ disc, which introduced a new fun gimmick to the game.

We have also covered the Best Open World Games PS5, so do check out our other article as well.

7. FIFA Soccer 2003

Taking inspiration from past titles, FIFA Soccer 2003 took things to the next level by adding real-world players and teams. This version dared to bring real-world legends into the virtual realm, with gameplay that really seemed to click with the masses. It was also the first game in the series to add celebration elements in the stadium with a cheerful crowd, which made the game more authentic and interesting. Features like highlight packages and analysis gave the matches a more real feel.

It also introduced a new feature called ‘Freestyle Control’ that allows users to unleash skillful moves, including nutmegs and flicks. FIFA Soccer 2003 also brought a major change to the graphics by adding more detail to the model faces and making the stadiums detailed and lively. Commentary from John Motson and Ally McCoist made the whole gaming experience even better. It is still loved for its combination of arcade and realistic football, making it one of the best FIFA games of all time.

6. FIFA 17

Another title in the list of best FIFA games of all time is FIFA 17, which brought a new story mode called The Journey, and turned out to be the best thing about the game. It follows the story of 17-year-old Alex Hunter, who is on a journey to become a professional footballer. Players can decide his every move in the Journey mode, which makes the game interesting and filled with fun. FIFA 17 also featured cinematics and motion captures that were previously never seen in the franchise. The only thing FIFA 17 was criticized for was its plain gameplay that lacked grace.

This title also uses the Frostbite engine that makes the overall graphics of the game look more authentic. It also introduced new mechanics that allow players to shield the ball and pass the ball more precisely. Its Ultimate Team is still the best thing about the game, featuring SBCs (Squad Building Challenges) as well that allow players to earn rewards by solving puzzles. The game is an amazing blend of realism and refined gameplay that made it a hit among players of all ages.

5. FIFA 11

FIFA 11 was launched with several new features and an improved dribbling system and passing accuracy, which gave users a better gaming experience. The Manager mode continued to do wonders in this iteration, while the inclusion of the MyPlayer mode seemed more of a hit or miss for some. Its ‘Personality Plus’ system offered unique traits to players, which made the game feel realistic. Its multiplayer modes became more challenging and intense, which was applauded by the fans.
The goalkeepers got a major buff in the game with improved AI that allowed them to make impressive saves and faster movements. The graphics and animation were upgraded in the title, which made every match look smoother. Its soundtrack was created by the iconic pop stars Lady Gaga and Gorillaz, who brought an enthusiastic vibe to the game. The game also introduced a new dribbling system that allows players to control the ball much better.

4. FIFA 12

FIFA 12 came with many additions and improvements. The animation and visuals are better, with easy controls that make its gameplay more immersive. It became the first title in the series to enhance the Ultimate Team mode and turned it into a fan favorite. The Ultimate Team became an exciting feature at the time and was loved by everyone. The game also introduced significant changes in the gameplay by adding Impact Engine, Precise Dribbling, and Tactical Defending. The game further refined a working formula that paved the way for FIFA 13.

The main highlight of the game was the Player Impact Engine, a new feature that made every movement and collision on the field feel more real. This definitely improved the gameplay. Moreover, the new Tactical Defending system added strategic depth to the game, making the defense require more skill. FIFA 12 also brought updated roster and team kits inspired by real life.

3. FIFA 10

FIFA 10 is one of the finest titles ever introduced by EA Sports. From the selection of the soundtrack to enhanced gameplay and graphics, FIFA 10 didn't fail to impress the users and encouraged them to showcase their skills actively in all modes. The manager mode also continued to do wonders for the title and carried more depth than its peers. The quick style of play made players more alert to focus on the field. The visuals are quite pleasing, giving more realism to the stadium atmospheres.

It is clearly a top title and has a major place among the greatest EA games of all time. From the stellar soundtrack to the gameplay and fine presentation of all the elements, FIFA 10 became a popular title among the football fans since its release. The quick style of play keeps users more attentive, and the thrill is present in every single match.

2. FIFA 14

FIFA 14 came with a range of amazing game modes that its predecessor, FIFA 13, didn't have. The game offers more realistic animation and a lively stadium atmosphere that increases the user experience. The gameplay was enhanced with improved ball control, accurate passing, and tactical depth that increases the satisfaction of every goal you score. The Ultimate Team mode in FIFA 13 made the online play better with the card-collecting thrill. The soundtrack is loved by everyone, making this game still one of the best FIFA titles.

It stands out for both its visual and technical improvements. The developers did a great job of changing the gameplay engine from Impact to Ignite, bringing an all-new feel to the game. These major improvements were highly praised by everyone, which led to FIFA 14 getting a Metacritic score of 84 and a place among the best FIFA titles.

1. FIFA 13

Rated as one of the greatest football simulators ever made, FIFA 13 stands above its peers as the undisputed GOAT. Highly rated by both fans and critics with high ratings all across the board. FIFA 13 offers the best football experience to the hardcore fans with an amazing manager mode and gameplay that will leave you in awe. The game came with numerous improvements to the Ultimate Team mode, which became the most beloved main mode of the game.

FIFA 13 has played an important role in shaping the overall future of this franchise's games, as it came with several improvements, specifically to the Ultimate Team Mode that has become the fan-favorite mode today. It offered many things for the time in the series, including PlayStation Move and Wii U controls. Although these features were mostly gimmicks, they did bring a new change to the franchise that was appreciated widely.