FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 Celebrated as Enduring Classic Game

Ahead of World Cup 2026, the football video game *FIFA: Road to World Cup 98* is being celebrated as an enduring classic. The title, released 28 years ago, is remembered for its innovative approach to gameplay and its status as a nostalgic time capsule for players.

The game is noted for its departure from features common in modern sports titles, such as pack openings, live events, and an emphasis on an 'endless grind.' Instead, it offered a streamlined experience focused directly on football action.

Its gameplay was considered a significant advancement for the FIFA franchise and 3D football titles of its era. Key innovations included analog movement, providing greater freedom on the pitch, and an all-new skill move system. The game also featured a professional foul button, allowing for more expressive play and strategic fouls, all at a speed comparable to contemporary titles.

The title boasted an extensive roster of 172 national teams, a remarkable inclusion for its time. While kit details were simplified, with teams often featuring broadly correct colors and some recognizable templates, this was deemed sufficient for 1997 visuals on 480p CRT TVs. David Beckham was featured on the game's cover.

Beyond its mechanics, *FIFA: Road to World Cup 98* captured a specific cultural moment, with a soundtrack featuring Britpop and big beats, notably Blur's "Song 2." This aspect contributed to its role as an effective interactive time capsule, allowing players to immerse themselves in the era it represented.

Its intuitive gameplay design continues to drive players towards goal-oriented action and progressing through tournaments, such as guiding less prominent teams to the World Cup final. (Source: IGN)