Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Play

Screenwise Verdict

EA Sports FC 24 is exactly what it says on the tin: a solid soccer simulation for kids who live and breathe football. The gameplay itself is clean and appropriate for all ages, teaching real strategy and sportsmanship.

The problems are the usual suspects: Ultimate Team mode is designed to make you spend money on card packs (though it's possible to play without spending), and online play means your kid might encounter trash-talking strangers. Turn off voice chat and messaging if you go online.

The bigger issue? This is the 2023 version, which means it's already outdated. The rosters are old, the online community has moved on, and your soccer-loving kid will inevitably want FC 25 or whatever comes next. If you're buying this on deep discount, fine. But know you're getting last year's model.

For offline Career Mode play with a soccer-obsessed kid who wants to manage their favorite team? It's perfectly good. For everything else, proceed with eyes open about the monetization and online risks.

Age Fit

Best for ages 7-16 who genuinely love soccer. Younger kids (6-8) can enjoy it with help, but the controls and strategy can be complex. Teens who love football will play it, but casual gamers may find it repetitive. Adults who follow soccer also play, but for kids, interest typically wanes in high school unless they're serious fans.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

Soccer simulation with clean content, rated E for Everyone (FC 25) and 3+ (PEGI). Models teamwork and sportsmanship through authentic football gameplay. No inappropriate content in core game, though online interactions with strangers require supervision.

Imaginative

58

Simulation game focused on replicating real-world football rather than creative expression. Players follow existing team structures and strategies. Limited building or exploration elements—you're playing out matches with established rules and rosters. Ultimate Team mode offers squad-building creativity but within strict parameters.

Safe

62

Core gameplay is safe for all ages (ESRB E, PEGI 3+). However, Ultimate Team mode historically includes loot box mechanics (FIFA Points for card packs) that have drawn gambling concerns—though the provided data shows 'loot_boxes_or_gacha: false' which may be outdated or incomplete. Online play includes messaging and voice chat with strangers, creating exposure risks. The game's monetization model has been controversial with parents.

Enriching

64

Teaches football strategy, team management, and hand-eye coordination. Career mode offers decision-making around player development and tactics. However, it's primarily entertainment-focused simulation rather than educational content. Some learning about real-world teams, players, and competitions. The annual release cycle means last year's version becomes outdated quickly.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Authentic football simulation with real teams, players, and competitions—Premier League, Champions League, women's leagues, and more
Teaches soccer strategy, positioning, and team management in an engaging way
Career mode lets kids build and manage their own teams without online pressures
Clean content appropriate for young kids—rated E/3+ with no violence or inappropriate themes
Great for soccer-obsessed kids who want to play as their favorite stars

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What to Watch For

Ultimate Team mode has historically pushed FIFA Points and card pack purchases—the loot box controversy that's plagued this franchise for years
Online play means messaging and voice chat with strangers unless you disable it
This is the 2023 version—already two generations old, meaning outdated rosters and fewer online players
Can be frustrating for younger kids who don't understand soccer rules or game mechanics
The annual release cycle means your kid will likely want the newest version next year

Conversation Starters

"Which team do you like playing as? What makes them good?"
"What's your strategy when you're losing at halftime?"
"Have you played online against other people? What was that like?"
"Do you ever want to spend real money on card packs? Let's talk about why that's designed to make you want more."

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