For the first time in the franchise’s history, the football video game FIFA 16 will feature women’s teams alongside the men’s.
England captain Steph Houghton features in FIFA 16 along with the rest of the England squad
Until now only men’s teams have featured on the popular EA Sports game which was first released in 1993. Gamers will now be able to play as their favourite women’s team in Match Day mode, Offline Tournament mode, and in Online Friendly Matches. According to the EA Sports website, women’s teams will only be able to play against other women’s teams.
12 international women’s teams will feature, including the squads for England, Germany, Brazil, France and the United States of America.
England captain Steph Houghton said of the inclusion:
“It is an honour to be involved with the game and it is hugely important for the development of the women’s game. Featuring on FIFA is new to the women’s game and raises the profile for women players but also raises awareness of the game to a new audience.”
Players have had their heads scanned in order to assure that their virtual-selves can look as realistic as possible. Designers also used American internationals Abby Wambach and Alex Morgan, amongst others, to record the typical movements and playing styles of female footballers.
FIFA 16 is due for release later this year.
