FIFA Street Interview Feature

Whenever EA comes up on a new slant itâ??s sure to be interesting. Already the market leader when it comes to full-blown footie games, this certainly puts a new spin on things. Itâ??s certainly more about skill and arcade pleasure whilst removing the rules from the big game offering a sort of freestyle street football focus. Could it be jumpers for goalposts in the park, or a more open forum for some skilful show off moves or could it be all of that and more? Well you can play against the worldâ??s top professional players, showing off your ball skills and individual style in 4-on-4 match-ups against the backdrop of global venues that represent the culture of street football.

To find out more Derek dela Fuente spoke with European Football Marketing Manager, Jon Rosenblatt, about the true nature of FIFA Street, a man who evidently likes to get straight to the point when answering!

TVG: Who came up with the idea of FIFA Street and what do you see as its ongoing potential? Do you see it catering, appealing, to a slightly different audience than FIFA 2005?

EA has always had an idea about an arcade football game. Having researched the concept with football gamers across Europe, we soon realised that the fans have been crying out for a game such as this.

I think all football fans will enjoy the fast paced gameplay of FIFA Street. Itâ??s so far removed from 11v11 simulation â?“ yet with real players, it has the FIFA stamp of authority.

TVG: Does it carry across the same concept as the NBA and NFL Street franchises?

EA SPORTS BIG has had enormous success with NBA Street and NFL Street. It was only a matter of time before we created a football street game. Itâ??s a culturally relevant fit for European football fans that play 5-a-side football or in the park or in the playground.

TVG: FIFA Street sounds like a â??liteâ?? offering where you can hone your skills, with fun a real focus â?“ would this be correct and do you see its big brother FIFA 2005?

They are two totally different experiences. FIFA Street is about winning with style. Points for tricks are the key to the success of Street. FIFA Football is our simulation title that immerses the gamer in the real life world of football.

There is no doubt that they are complimentary, however, our fans are telling us that both games offer variety and fun in different ways.

TVG: Perhaps you could give us an indication of what FIFA Street offers to the player?

You can play a friendly against the computer or friend. Choose any one of 12 nations, including Brazil, England, France, Italy, Spain, as well as Denmark, Czech Republic and Australia. The locations are 100% urban â?“ from the cobblestones in Rome to the Underground depot in London, to the real life Nike court in Amsterdam.

As a one-player experience, we challenge the consumer to â??Rule the Streetâ??. Create yourself, your kit, your team name and choose players from within the game â?“ then take on the best in the world through the 10 world locations. As you progress, you increase your points to buy better players. Before long you could choose the greatest players in the world. Imagine playing Street football with Ronaldinho, Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo â?“ and theyâ??re in your teamâ?¦

TVG: In terms of moves, fancy actions and tricks what is new on offer? Tell us about one of the teamâ??s favourites?

Youâ??ll have to play the game yourself. Letâ??s just say that some of the moves can leave you speechless!

TVG: Apart from a faster pace what other factors of 4 on 4 do you see as exciting?

Use the wall as the 5th man. Many tricks can be pulled off by using the wall to get past the player. Also, beware, in FIFA Street there are no rules, no ref, no cards - the action can get pretty hot.

TVG: In terms of technical specs, views, presentation, etc, does the approach differ much from big brother FIFA?

Totally different. You only have to take a look at the screenshots and youâ??ll see the difference.

The court is obviously much smaller than a football pitch. The players have more definition and attitude and wear street clothing. The music and MC are also a cultural fit to the world of street football

TVG: Tell us about one anecdote you have heard that made you smile or think.

The other day, we showed the game to Ronaldinho who scored a crazy overhead kick. He threw the pad down and ran round the room celebrating the audacious shot!!!

TVG: What are some of the locations/settings on offer â?“ perhaps highlighting one of the most diverse?

As mentioned above, we have 10 locations. These vary from outdoor night-time matches in Berlin to the hot dusty court in Lagos, Nigeria. Other locations include Marseilles, Barcelona, London, New York, Rio de Janeiro, Amsterdam, London, Rome, Mexico City.

TVG: One on One sounds interesting â?“ how does it work in terms of challenge and what kind of modes will be on offer?

Friendly â?“ Pick the two teams, the players, and the court. Game On - Pick two teams, players are already picked for you as is the court. Rule the Street â?“ Explained as above. Star Team â?“ Create your uber team and play in Friendly and Game On.

Thank you for your time.

TVG has recently received the latest build of FIFA Street, so whether weâ??re running around the room like Ronaldinho or left-longing for FIFA 2005, weâ??ll let you know soon.