Every year EA hinges its FIFA propaganda on a certain new element of the game, and this year it is the brand-new Hypermotion Technology that we are all supposed to be in awe of ahead of FIFA 22.
By now we treat these new additions with an element of caution as we have been let down in the past, however this year feels slightly different, and here is why.
What is Hypermotion Technology?
The official statement from EA reads as follows;
“Powered by HyperMotion, FIFA 22 combines Advanced 11v11 Match Capture and proprietary machine learning technology to deliver the most realistic, fluid and responsive football experience for next-gen consoles and Stadia, unlocking the raw emotion, passion and physicality of the world’s game.
HyperMotion technology enabled the integration of the first-ever motion capture of 22 professional footballers playing at high intensity.
Additionally, EA’s proprietary machine learning algorithm learns from more than 8.7 million frames of advanced match capture, then writes new animations in real time to create organic football movement across a variety of interactions on the pitch.
Whether it’s a shot, pass or cross, HyperMotion transforms how players move on and off the ball.”
This statement contains the usual combination of emotive description and technological jargon of previous releases, but in practice the new tech seems to be the real deal.
Look Good, Feel Good
The insane graphic capabilities of next-gen consoles PS5 and Xbox Series X|S have always promised us the most realistic FIFA ever.
This looks to be the case too with players looking sharper than ever.
No longer are there missing tattoos or players looking more like they should be in Madame Tussauds.
Yes, players have had facial recognition in previous editions of the game, but the new technology has brought them to life in a way never seen before.
Progressive Play
It is not just a case of looking good on the outside with not much going on behind the scenes though as the gameplay has seriously impressed us.
Although we only tested the new technology in Kick-Off mode, we still got an early feel for a more precise and progressive style of play.
Players react instinctively with less obvious programming available to exploit, while subtle tactical changes make it more satisfying to see your team performing your instructions.
If you think this is going to be another slow and dull version of the game though, think again.
The time (albeit brief) we have had playing the game saw us score some of the most satisfying goals we can remember.
Whether you like a slow build-up and picking your opponent apart or a swift counterattack to catch the defence out of position, FIFA 22 feels like it will have something for everyone.