EA has always been in support of utilizing loot boxes. However, the “surprise mechanics” may no longer be a surprise as FIFA 21 loot boxes can now be previewed before you buy them.
FIFA 21 Allowing Loot Box Preview
Madden, FIFA, and so many of the publishing titan’s games all have loot boxes. This has been a huge controversy in recent years. Just a year ago, EA appeared before congress and defended the utilization of loot boxes, describing them as “Surprise Mechanics”.
Showing rates before buying a loot box is typically a staple in gacha games. However, with EA’s iteration on FIFA, there is a catch.
With what EA is calling Ultimate Team Preview Packs, players can look at the Festival of Futball packs and decide if it’s worth their while. Once the player previews the pack there is a 20 hour and 35-minute cool down before they can preview another pack. In that time frame, you can buy them immediately to preview another or wait for the timer to expire.
It is worth noting EA disclaims they “are constantly looking to improve the FIFA experience for everyone, so this article may become outdated as we make adjustments to keep our game fun for everyone.”
Multiple governments demand change from EA’s use of loot boxes. Lawsuits have been filed against EA likening the usage of loot boxes as gambling. Even charities put out research to link loot boxes to gambling. In other words, it was a matter of time before EA changed something around.
Yesterday, EA revealed Madden 22, so it is plausible EA will add the ability to preview MUT packs.
In one way or another, the publishing giant may restructure the way loot boxes are used in-game. It is possible this will trickle down into their other titles but that remains to be seen.