A new collaboration between Electronic Arts and the Musqueam Indian Band is set to feature the Musqueam culture in FIFA 23. This collaboration incorporates Musqueam cultural elements, including a Musqueam longhouse and artwork from Musqueam visual artists, carvers, designers, and weavers.
Once the game is officially launched, players get the chance to play at the Musqueam-inspired VOLTA FOOTBALL Pitch. This is a fictional representation of the real-life soccer field of Musqueam, which brought together various indigenous athletes and fans from across the region since it was unveiled in 2012.
Players can also unlock VOLTA FOOTBALL apparel and FIFA Ultimate Team kits designed by Musqueam artists. Available as well are FUT stadium customization elements, which feature different Musqueam motifs and patterns.
Since EA Sports FIFA is mainly developed at EA Vancouver, the collaboration between EA Sports and Musqueam is a chance to celebrate local creatives and feature their work to millions of fans worldwide. EA Sports has collaborated with 10 Musqueam artists, each one introducing unique perspective and design to the environments and kits that represent the region to a global audience.
In addition, the main foundation for this collaboration is profound love and shared passion for soccer. Musqueam athletes have long been committed to the pursuit of well-being from rigorous physical, mental, and spiritual training. Not that surprising considering that they're known to be stewards, peacekeepers, and protectors of their land. These same athletes play with heart and character-building sports like soccer, generally practiced from childhood to adulthood. These practices are a continuation of the intercommunity ties that have existed for thousands of years.
In a statement, Chief of Musqueam Indian Band Wayne Sparrow shared that with this special collaboration, the Musqueam is showcasing not only their unique and distinctive culture but also their thriving soccer community and love for the sport. It's something that they've shared with many First Nations in this region, he added. Sparrow went on to say that they hope when indigenous athletes and gamers see that the game features indigenous fields and kits, they will bring them joy and pride.
EA Sports FIFA Director of Brand Marketing Nicholas Lammie revealed that they are honored to have worked with Musqueam community leaders, athletes, and artists to share their deep and meaningful history and culture with many FIFA fans worldwide.
FIFA 23 is coming out this September 30 on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Stadia. Early access for FIFA 23 Ultimate Edition starts September 27.
