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As the Russian and Ukrainian conflict progresses, the world is taking a stand against the violence occurring, and it's extending into the sports and gaming world. The NHL announced its decision to suspend its partnership with Russia, while the IIHF, FIFA, and UEFA bans Russia from any future competition, while games like Electronic Arts' FIFA 22 and NHL 22 could be affected.
EA appears to be the latest to join in on the sanctions towards Russia, according to a report. In a company email sent out by EA executives, the Russian national team will be removed from FIFA and NHL games, starting with the NHL 22 and FIFA 22 titles, marking the second time EA has committed to a significant removal.
According to Tom Henderson via Twitter, EA has sent out a company email to declare the ban of the Russian national team from their FIFA and NHL games, although the extent to this decision has not yet been clarified. In a variety of modes, both offline and online, gamers can play as the Russian national team, complete with the national colors and players from the representing country. Modes like Hockey Ultimate Team and Be A Pro contain the ability to display any Russian likeness, while FIFA 22's Ultimate Team offers the same.
The decision comes shortly after the NHL and IIHF announced their sanctions and bans, and it's understandable why EA and entities like the NHL and IIHF are taking steps to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. With EA becoming the first video game company to go through with a ban, it'll be interesting to see if other companies do the same, or if EA takes things further with other gaming titles, including its Battlefield and Medal of Honor series. Battlefield 2042 has made changes already but could be subject to further changes, as well as any other gaming franchise involving Russia in a war-themed world.
The details are less known about FIFA at this time, however, both FIFA and UEFA have announced the banning of Russia from the 2022 World Cup, so their appearance in FIFA 22 will likely be removed. The ban comes one day after proposed sanctions of the Russian flag and anthem fell flat, and the idea of Russian games being held at neutral sites was underwhelming. Modes like FIFA Ultimate Team and Squad Building Challenge feature both the Russian team and Russian-born athletes, and would be affected by the decision.
FIFA 22 is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Stadia, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. NHL 22 is available to play on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.