10: FIFA 98
Finally, we reach the top 10, where the competition is stiff and tensions run high. Here we have David Beckham apparently crossing realities, exiting the pitch into a yawning chasm of utmost nothingness, a void of pure white. Perhaps David enters this realm, bereft of spice but rich in entitlement and priviledge, to assume his role as the one god above all? This franchise has delved into some serious lore thus far and FIFA 98 expands it greatly, showing us the ascension of Lord Beckham. Truly, a sight to behold.
9: FIFA 2002
Thierry Henry is pointing at something with a fierce look of determination in his eyes that is rarely seen in our lives. Whoever he is pointing at has been marked for something, possibly even death! Maybe he’s pointing at the game to the right of it on the shelf, as a bit of subtle marketing for shop display purposes? There’s a lot to unpack here, and I applaud EA for thinking outside the box. Maybe he’s pointing at the person next to you right now…
8: FIFA 08
The 8th game is in 8th place? You know it’s like poetry, it rhymes. Yup, it’s screaming Rooney again but this time he appears to be evaporating into some sort of black substance. There’s some hardcore science-fiction tomfoolery occurring here, and whatever it is, I’m a fan. I applaud FIFA 08 for branching out into other genres and proudly portraying that shift on the front cover.
7: FIFA 2004
Look at these three fellows. Just look how determined they are, dashing towards the camera, powered by sheer motivation and vigour. I can imagine many chair-bound FIFA players looking upon this cover and feeling invigorated by this display of activity and drive. A truly inspirational cover, one that should be hung up and framed in gyms.
