FIFA 23 - ePL Champion Shellz gives honest assessment of this year's gameplay

FIFA 23 has arrived to much acclaim, with many praising EA for the changes made to the overall feel of the game.

Whilst we know what the general community is thinking, how are the pros finding this year's game?

We had the pleasure of speaking with Shaun "Shellzz" Springette on this subject, with the topic of gameplay at the forefront of our minds.

Facing The Meta

We all know the lengthy archetypes have taken a prominent spot in FIFA 23 this year, with the topic of pace certain to get a few hearts racing.

"The new lengthy archetype makes different players more viable, it's nice to see a bit of refreshment"

That being said, Shellz was quick to point out that a better balance needs to be struck in order to make the archetypes settle better in the game.

"I think the (lengthy) archetype is too important and it's too good compared to the other ones. Lengthy is just miles ahead, there are no centre-backs catching Haaland. Sometimes they have a chance but most of the time the defenders are not as great as they should be."

As a representative of Man City eSports, there's no wonder a certain Norwegian striker gets a namedrop.

"Haaland's causing havoc everywhere you go."

Whilst some may argue that a balance needs to be struck, how does a pro view the new meta?

"I wouldn't say I'm happy or upset what the state of the game."

"I do think controlling explosive needs to be tweaked a little bit so more players are more viable and useful because at this moment the balance isn't great."

Whilst we know that size certainly does matter in FIFA 23, will Shellz be adopting a team filled with lengthy stars moving forward?

"It would probably be deadly but I probably will advise against it."

"I don't have any lengthy strikers but if you want to use them then go for it. You want to use players that cause havoc everywhere."

Tactical Tweaks

The life of a FIFA player is always set to ebb and flow and the release of a new game is always going to present its own challenges.

Away from the dominant discourse surrounding archetypes, are there any other areas of FIFA 23 that Shellz would like to see tweaked?

"I think they can change the Trivela shots, as much as I love them. I gotta go to them because some of the goals you score are just stupid."

"Corners need to be sorted as well because sometimes you just can't keep up with the ball, but definitely nothing major."

As a self-professed skiller, Shellz was quick to point out his enjoyment of the new left-footed skill mechanics.

"I think it can be improved but I did see a crazy goal the other day. It was with the new drag-back skill and then a Trivela, it was one of the craziest goals I've seen."

It's clear that if you want to play like a pro, mastering the Trivela and finding your own Meta players is the key to reaching the top.

Interview conducted by David Luff.

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