Can the I-League be part of FIFA 14?

Electronic Arts, known for its extremely addictive football video-game franchise, released its latest instalment, FIFA 13 in September last year.

This edition featured three new international teams, bringing the grand total to 46. One of the most surprising additions however, excited most gamers in one of its most popular markets – India, which was one of new teams on the roster.

This year’s version, FIFA 14, is expected to be released in September. But the big question on everyone’s mind is whether, India – and more importantly its domestic league, I-league – actually be part of it.

The answer to that question could surprisingly be decided by Indian fans, meaning us. A poll is currently underway on the FIFPlay website to include some new leagues in this edition of the game. Although they are not EA’s official website, they have the responsibility of bringing fans ideas to EA.

It’s really just that simple. In 2012, the Saudi Arabian league claimed the most number of votes along with the Iranian League but instead of being installed in the 2012 version, it found its place secured for FIFA 13.

FIFPlay Voting Polls

The Most Important League for FIFA 12:

• Iranian League (49%)
• Saudi Arabian League (49%)
• Romanian League (1%)
• Dutch Second League (1%)

Total Votes: 207,487

There is also ‘Wish List’ for every edition before its release and the best comment with maximum likes is picked up to be incorporated into the newer version. In the FIFA 13 wish list, it was quite evident when one fan wished to include India in the game. And as it got the most number of likes, it was duly introduced.

Earlier, Indian fans had to download a FIFA patch, which they had to install after the original game for additional teams like India. Only then they could they play as an Indian team, but only for limited period as those glitch-filled patches would often crash.

But once FIFA 13 has been released, fans have had the privilege of playing as India. And if the I-League is included in the next edition, then the game will be become even more exciting and popular in the sub-continent.

The tag of “Free Agent” which appeared beside every Indian player, except Indian captain Sunil Chhetri, will be removed from FIFA games if they introduce the Indian domestic league. Perhaps the most satisfactory aspect, if this were to actually happen, is that fans wouldn’t have to download the faulty patches anymore.

FIFA 14 will introduce (and modify) nine new features to the franchise:

1. Pure Shot

2. Real Ball Physics

3. Protect the Ball

4. Teammate Intelligence

5. Sprint Dribble Turns

6. Variable Dribble Touches

7. 2nd Chance Tackles

8. Lofted Through Balls

9. Skill Games

With updated features, FIFA 14 will probably be bigger and better than the current version.

Following are the ratings of the Indian players in FIFA 13, who are all stated as ‘Free Agents’ apart from skipper Sunil Chettri, who is a reserve player at Portugal’s Sporting CP.

Goalkeepers:

Subrata Pal: 64, Karanjit Singh: 59, Subhashish Chowdhury: 52

Defence:

Gouramangi Singh: 63, Anwar Ali: 63, Samir Naik: 59,

Raju Gaikwad: 57, Syed Nabi: 56, Nirmal Chettri: 56, Denzil Franco: 55

Midfield:

Mehtab Hossain: 61, Mehrajuddin Wadoo: 58, Lalrindika Ralte: 58, Jaspal Singh: 57

Clifford Miranda: 56, Rocus Lamare: 52, Baldeep Singh Junior: 52, Jewel Rajas: 50

Attack:

Robin Singh: 57, Sunil Chettri: 65

Steven Dias: 64, Sushil Singh: 59

Voting is currently underway on their official website for the inclusion of the I-League. There is also a Facebook page called, “Mission I-League in FIFA 14,” which has gotten over 80 likes. It all depends on Indian fans around the globe to decide whether the I-league should be included in this beautiful game or not.

The current situation isn’t ideal as it is in second place with the Chinese League in first place. The Argentinean league and the Hungarian league are in third and fourth respectively.

Voting Poll, as on 25^th May, 2013

Which league to be added to FIFA 14?

• Chinese League (34%)
• Indian League (33%)
• Argentinean League (30%)
• Hungarian League (3%)

Total Votes: 90,246

The league with the most number of votes will be included in FIFA 14 or later additions. If not this year, but the next, we as loyal, passionate gamers we should ensure that our league makes it to the big stage.

So go on, what are you waiting for? I voted. It’s your turn.

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