Electronic Arts (EA) has made a significant update to the iconic game mode, Ultimate Team, in FIFA. For the first time ever, women will be included in Ultimate Team, which has traditionally only featured men.

In EA Sport’s upcoming title, FC 24, players will have the opportunity to form hybrid squads consisting of both men and women. These squad members can be obtained through packs or the transfer market.

“Ultimate means everyone in EA SPORTS FC 24,” stated EA in a blog post. “Ultimate Team unites both halves of The World’s Game, bringing men’s and women’s football together to play on the same pitch.”

However, not everyone has responded positively to this update. Some players argue that mixing genders in co-ed teams is unrealistic and detracts from the fun of Ultimate Team. In response, John Shepherd, executive producer at EA, defended the decision, stating, “Ultimate Team is a fantasy mode. You don’t see Mbappe playing with all the Icons. It’s Ultimate Team — fantasy football is what’s happening there.”

EA has assured fans that it will take a firm stance against any inappropriate behavior and actively monitor and address it. “It’s an ongoing thing. It’s a constant effort,” Shepherd emphasized. “We have a team within EA that is fully focused on toxicity and understanding what’s happening in the game. We are moving to some newer systems even for this next game, where we’re using some new services to help us monitor names.”

Despite concerns raised by some players, EA has implemented measures to ensure realistic squad chemistry. Players will still link to other players from the same leagues and nations, and they can also be linked based on their clubs. Additionally, player ratings will be relative to their real-world counterparts.

FC 24 will be released on September 29 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. While waiting, check out some of the best football games currently available.