The release of EAFC 25 marks a new chapter in the football simulation genre, following EA Sports' long-standing tradition of immersive gameplay and unforgettable soundtracks. With a legacy stretching back over two decades, the FIFA (now FC) series has not only revolutionised how football is played virtually but also set a gold standard for in-game music. The soundtracks have always been a crucial component of the experience, capturing the global spirit of football while blending diverse musical genres from around the world.
The Evolution of Music in Football Gaming: EAFC 25 and Iconic Soundtracks
Throughout the years, EA’s football games have given a platform to artists across genres, introducing players to unforgettable tunes that stay with them long after the final whistle. Many artists have benefitted from this extended reach, with the initial exposure triggering a solid fan following. FIFA gamer and professional music co-ordinator Zoe Fearn explains:
Zoe Fern, Music co-ordinator
I first discovered Tom Grennan as an artist when ‘Found What I’ve Been Looking For’ was released in the FIFA 18 soundtrack. I then became a huge fan and have now seen him live around 5 times from this. He was the soundtrack to my time at university – nostalgic.
Some tracks have even become synonymous with the game’s history:
Song 2 by Blur (FIFA 98) - This Britpop anthem was a high-octane adrenaline rush that perfectly complemented the electrifying energy of the FIFA series in the late 90s. The moment you heard "Woo-hoo!", you knew you were in for a match of excitement.
Jerk It Out by Caesars (FIFA 04) - This Swedish indie rock tune became an instant classic for players, thanks to its catchy beat and infectious rhythm. It’s a track that transports fans back to the time when football gaming was truly hitting its stride.
Love Me Again by John Newman (FIFA 14) - With its soulful vocals and powerful beat, this song not only captured the spirit of triumph and perseverance but also became an anthem for the football culture around the globe.
The Nights by Avicii (FIFA 15) - The Swedish DJ and music producer infused his unique style into this track, which became a fan favourite. Its uplifting message perfectly captured the joy and drama that football inspires.
Heat Waves by Glass Animals (FIFA 21) - Recent soundtracks have leaned into more eclectic and indie offerings, with this song striking a chord with gamers through its dreamy, atmospheric beats and melancholic lyrics.
These iconic tracks have become more than just background noise; they are a reminder of the magic that exists within the game, accompanying countless hours spent in menus, team selections, and career modes.
EAFC 25’s Next-Level Pre-Match Vibe
With EAFC 25, EA Sports has taken its approach to in-game music a step further by capturing the authentic pre-match atmosphere of real football matches. The music you hear in the game’s menus and pre-match segments isn't just there to fill the silence; it’s curated to evoke the anticipation, excitement, and tension that players and fans feel before a big game.
From stadium chants to the echoes of the crowd’s murmur, EAFC 25 bridges the gap between virtual and reality. EA has worked closely with sound designers and football experts to bring that palpable sense of anticipation to life. When you’re browsing through team selections or setting up tactics, the playlist echoes the sounds you’d hear as fans file into a stadium, chatter grows, and excitement builds. By blending these real-lifesounds into the music, EAFC 25 enhances the immersion, making the transition from menu to match seamless and emotionally engaging.
Music in Games: The Power of Sound
Music in video games has become a vital tool in building the world of the game, enhancing the emotional experience, and establishing a connection between the player and the action on-screen. Perhaps no series has mastered this better than Grand Theft Auto.
From GTA: Vice City to GTA V, Rockstar Games pioneered the use of in-game radio stations filled with licensed tracks that perfectly captured the cultural and temporal setting of their respective games. In Vice City, for instance, the iconic ‘80s radio stations set the tone for the neon-soaked streets and the rise of organized crime in Miami-inspired locales. The blend of licensed music and fictional DJ commentary became a defining feature, expanding players' immersion and boosting enjoyment during those long drives through the game’s expansive cityscapes.
These soundtracks aren’t just fillers—they reflect the era, attitude, and style of the game’s setting, making them an integral part of the gaming experience. For fans, the music enhances the narrative, adding layers of depth and relatability, whether it's through high-energy rock anthems or low-key, atmospheric tracks.
Games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater also tapped into the importance of music to build their identity, with punk and skate culture songs defining the game’s rebellious, carefree spirit. Similarly, The Last of Us and *Red Dead Redemption 2 have used more subtle, emotionally charged soundtracks to underscore the storytelling, drawing players deeper into their complex worlds.
From Games to Retail: Music as an Essential Experience
The importance of music stretches far beyond gaming. Whether you're walking through a shopping mall or scrolling through the menus of a video game, the right music shapes your experience and mood. In retail spaces, curated playlists are designed to set the tone—upbeat songs in a clothing store might encourage shoppers to stay longer, while calming tunes in a bookstore might promote relaxation and exploration.
In gaming, the same principle applies. A well-curated soundtrack can make the difference between a good game and a great one, bridging the gap between digital and emotional engagement. From EA’s football series to open-world giants like GTA, music has transcended its role as mere background noise—it’s a crucial tool for immersion, storytelling, and creating unforgettable experiences.
As EAFC 25 and other games continue to push boundaries, it’s clear that music will always be a key player, shaping how we engage with these virtual worlds, and making every moment more meaningful, whether on the pitch or in the virtual streets of a sprawling city.