FUT Watch found the code for a pop-up message in the game's latest patch, which states, "FIFA Ultimate Team is currently not accessible due to a demand from the authorities of your region."
EA has a history with local gambling authorities and lawmakers in both Europe and North America, of course. Just this year, a class-action lawsuit was filed against the company in California, a similar lawsuit was filed in Canada, and a district court in the Netherlands allowed a fine over EA's loot boxes to proceed.
Electronic Arts has remained compliant in some regions by not offering FIFA Points for sale. In Belgium, for instance, the company removed the virtual currency following the country's crackdown on loot boxes. Players in Belgium can still play Ultimate Team, but the only way to purchase players and other content is through the use of in-game coins.
As more countries begin to tighten their restrictions and file lawsuits against EA, it appears as though the company may be considering blocking the mode in certain countries to get the authorities off its back. This seems like the most extreme conclusion, however.
About EA
Electronic Arts Inc. is a global leader in interactive digital entertainment. The firm develops and provides games, content and online services for Internet connected consoles, mobile devices and personal computers. The company has more than 300 million registered players around the world. In fiscal 2018, EA posted GAAP net revenue of US$5.15 billion. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, United States, EA is recognized for having highly successful and high-quality brands in its portfolio, such as The Sims, Madden NFL, EA SPORTS FIFA, Battlefield, Need for Speed, Dragon Age and Plants vs. Zombies.
Source: GMB
