The World Cup 98 marked a turning point in the world of football video games, as it was the first official FIFA game developed by EA Sports after obtaining the rights from the organization in 1997. Unlike previous games, which featured 2D graphics and an aerial view, this new title entered the world of 3D graphics, using DirectX technology for its PC version. This technical evolution allowed players to enjoy a much more immersive and realistic gaming experience, something that marked a milestone in the history of sports video games.
One of the highlights of World Cup 98 was the introduction of national team uniforms that faithfully reflected the clothing of the teams participating in the tournament. Although goalkeepers had to make do with generic kits, outfield players wore shirts and shorts with the logos of the official clothing manufacturers. This level of detail was one of the features that distinguished the game from its predec...
The World Cup 98 marked a turning point in the world of football video games, as it was the first official FIFA game developed by EA Sports after obtaining the rights from the organization in 1997. Unlike previous games, which featured 2D graphics and an aerial view, this new title entered the world of 3D graphics, using DirectX technology for its PC version. This technical evolution allowed players to enjoy a much more immersive and realistic gaming experience, something that marked a milestone in the history of sports video games.
One of the highlights of World Cup 98 was the introduction of national team uniforms that faithfully reflected the clothing of the teams participating in the tournament. Although goalkeepers had to make do with generic kits, outfield players wore shirts and shorts with the logos of the official clothing manufacturers. This level of detail was one of the features that distinguished the game from its predecessors, offering fans a more authentic representation of their favorite teams in the video game.
The game engine was based on the one used for FIFA: Road to World Cup 98, although some minor gameplay improvements were made, such as the ability to modify strategies during the match and improved player placement on the field. These improvements made the game feel more dynamic and allowed football fans to immerse themselves in a more realistic competitive environment. Players could make changes to their team's tactics, which contributed to enriching the gameplay experience and more effectively simulating the decisions coaches must make during a match.
In addition to the tournament phase, World Cup 98 offered a friendly mode that included several teams that failed to qualify for the main event. This was great news for fans of teams who, despite not participating in the World Cup, could represent their country in the video game. The inclusion of unqualified national teams provided greater variety and options for players, making this title a favorite among football fans around the world.
The game was released for multiple platforms, including Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, Nintendo 64, and Game Boy. This widespread availability allowed millions of players to access the World Cup experience on their favorite devices. World Cup 98 quickly became one of the best-selling and most beloved titles among football fans, setting a standard for future installments in the FIFA series and cementing EA Sports' reputation in the sports video game industry.
