FIFA International Soccer
Like
Follow
YouTube
Press Keyboard right side: Alt+Enter keys to switch to full screen game play, and Alt+Enter keys to return.
Rate it
How to play FIFA International Soccer
Controls varied slightly depending on the system, but the Sega Mega Drive version is the best documented:
- D-Pad: Move player.
- A Button: Sliding tackle / Change player (on defense).
- B Button: Short pass / Tackle.
- C Button: Long pass / Shoot on goal.
- Start: Pause menu.
FIFA International Soccer Description
FIFA International Soccer is a 1993 sports video game developed by EA Canada’s Extended Play Productions and published by Electronic Arts. It was first released on the Sega Mega Drive in December 1993 before being ported to multiple platforms in 1994. This title marked the beginning of the long-running FIFA series, which would become one of the most successful sports franchises in gaming history.
Gameplay Overview
The game simulates international football (soccer), where two teams of eleven players compete to score goals. Unlike many earlier football games, FIFA International Soccer introduced an isometric camera angle, offering a more dynamic perspective compared to the top-down or bird’s-eye views used by titles such as Kick Off or Sensible Soccer.
Players can control any footballer on their team and switch between them during play. Up to four players can participate simultaneously, either on the same team or as opponents, with the computer managing the remaining footballers.
Game Modes
The game offers four primary modes of play:
- Exhibition: A quick one-off match between two teams of choice.
- Tournament: Modeled after the FIFA World Cup, with group stages followed by knockout rounds.
- Playoffs: A shorter version of Tournament, starting directly in the knockout stage.
- League: Players compete in a season-long format against multiple teams.
Notable Quirk
One well-known exploit in the game is the goalkeeper glitch. Players can easily score by standing in front of the computer-controlled keeper during a goal kick. The ball bounces off the player directly into the net, creating an unintended but famous tactic.
FAQ: FIFA International Soccer
When was FIFA International Soccer released?
It was released in December 1993 on the Sega Mega Drive, with ports to other systems in 1994.
What made FIFA International Soccer unique at the time?
Its isometric perspective set it apart from most football games of the early 1990s, offering a fresh viewing angle and more immersive gameplay.
How many players can play at once?
Up to four players could play simultaneously, either cooperatively or competitively.
What game modes are available?
Exhibition, Tournament, Playoffs, and League.
Is there a known exploit?
Yes—the goalkeeper glitch, where standing in front of the keeper during a goal kick often results in an easy goal.
Cheats/Hints/Walkthroughs for FIFA International Soccer
Tips for Playing FIFA International Soccer
- Exploit the Goalkeeper Glitch: Position your player in front of the keeper during a goal kick to score easily.
- Master Passing: Short passes are safer, while long passes open up play. Mixing both is key to breaking through defenses.
- Use Sliding Tackles Sparingly: While effective, mistimed tackles often lead to fouls and free kicks.
- Play with Friends: The multiplayer mode is one of the game’s strongest features, offering more unpredictable matches than playing against the AI.
- Practice Switching Players: Quickly switching to the defender nearest the ball is essential for stopping fast counterattacks.
FIFA International Soccer - additional information
Publisher
Cover Art
