HOW TO MASTER FIFA 23: A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS AND VETERANS

April 22, 2025

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INTRODUCTION

FIFA 23 is one of the most ambitious iterations of the long-standing football simulation series. Whether you're a new player just starting out or a returning fan of the franchise, mastering FIFA 23 requires a deep understanding of its new features, gameplay mechanics, and subtle changes. This article will walk you through a comprehensive "how to" journey—from getting started to perfecting your Ultimate Team. Packed with tips, breakdowns, and structured insights, this guide will help elevate your play and get the most out of the FIFA 23 experience.

GETTING STARTED: SETTING UP FIFA 23 CORRECTLY

Before you even step onto the digital pitch, proper setup can shape your entire FIFA 23 experience. From camera angles to control schemes, the right settings can significantly boost your performance and comfort.

Customize Game Settings
Head to the "Settings" menu and fine-tune the camera to "Tele Broadcast" for better pitch coverage. Adjust controller settings to "Classic" if you're familiar with traditional layouts or experiment with "Alternate" for a fresh feel.

Key Settings to Check

  • Camera: Tele Broadcast

  • Controller: Classic or Alternate

  • Auto-Switching: Manual (for precision)

  • Player Lock: Enabled (useful for advanced tactics)

LEARNING THE BASICS OF GAMEPLAY

FIFA 23 introduces HyperMotion2 technology, which improves realism. This means player movement and ball behavior are more dynamic. Understanding these basics is critical.

Focus on Movement and Passing
Learn the importance of precision dribbling and timed passes. Unlike past versions, FIFA 23 rewards accurate, intentional ball movement. Avoid button spamming.

Master the Power Shot
New to FIFA 23, Power Shots (L1 + R1 + Shoot) deliver high-risk, high-reward scoring chances. Use in open areas and when the defender isn’t breathing down your neck.

BUILDING YOUR TEAM IN CAREER MODE

Career Mode remains a cornerstone of FIFA. Whether you prefer to manage from the sidelines or control your player, this mode is richer than ever before in FIFA 23.

Choosing the Right Club
Pick a club that matches your goals. Want a challenge? Go for a lower-tier team. Want to dominate? Try PSG or Manchester City.

Recommended Teams for Different Goals

  • Rebuild Project: Sunderland, Palermo

  • Challenge Mode: Leeds United, Real Sociedad

  • Dominate Now: PSG, Bayern Munich

Managing Finances and Transfers
Scout young talent and watch your wage budget. Use Release Clauses strategically, and don’t forget to invest in your Youth Academy.

PERFECTING YOUR SKILLS IN PRACTICE MODE

Before playing ranked matches or starting a tournament, practice is vital. The Skill Games and Practice Arena offer great opportunities to improve.

Using Skill Games Effectively
Skill Games help you learn the mechanics of passing, shooting, and defending. Prioritize those with Bronze to Gold rankings.

Focus Areas

  • Dribbling drills (tight space control)

  • Passing challenges (timed and through balls)

  • Defending scenarios (tackle timing)

HOW TO WIN MORE MATCHES ONLINE

Online play is competitive, but there are ways to improve your win ratio. It starts with understanding how other players think and adapting quickly.

Play Patiently
Don't rush forward—hold possession and look for gaps. Fast breaks are less effective than structured build-up play in FIFA 23.

Use Dynamic Tactics
Set your team to use Dynamic Tactics before the match. You can assign strategies for attack, defense, and transitions to fit any scenario.

MASTERING FIFA ULTIMATE TEAM (FUT)

FUT is FIFA 23’s most popular mode. It can be overwhelming, but with a clear strategy, you can build a solid squad without spending real money.

Start with Squad Building Challenges (SBCs)
SBCs are a great way to earn packs and coins. Complete beginner challenges first before moving to more complex ones.

Sniping on the Transfer Market
Buy low, sell high. Use filters to find undervalued players and flip them for profit. Be sure to check the market trends frequently.

DEFENDING LIKE A PRO

FIFA 23 emphasizes defensive intelligence. Sliding tackles are riskier, and standing tackles require perfect timing. Here's how to step up your game.

Use Jockey and Contain
Hold L2 (or LT on Xbox) to jockey and anticipate your opponent's movement. Use R1 (RB) to call a second defender only when necessary.

Don’t Spam the Tackle Button
Mistimed tackles open up your defense. Patience and positioning are more effective than reckless aggression.

CREATING CUSTOM TACTICS AND FORMATIONS

Pre-made formations are fine, but custom tactics give you the edge. FIFA 23 offers detailed sliders for build-up play, width, depth, and more.

Experiment with Different Styles
Try formations like 4-2-3-1 for balance or 3-5-2 for offensive dominance. Tweak sliders based on your playstyle and squad strengths.

Suggested Tactical Sliders

  • Width: 45–55 (balanced)

  • Depth: 65+ (aggressive press)

  • Build-Up: Fast Build-Up or Balanced

  • Chance Creation: Direct Passing

EXPLOITING SET PIECES: CORNERS, FREE KICKS, AND PENALTIES

Set pieces are a golden opportunity to score, but many players ignore their potential. Mastering these can make a massive difference.

Corners and Short Passes
Short corners give you more control and options. Pull defenders out of position and whip a ball into the box for a header or volley.

Master the Free Kick Meter
Use the right stick to aim, then adjust spin and power. Practice makes perfect—especially with players like De Bruyne or Messi.

USING ANALYTICS TO IMPROVE YOUR GAME

FIFA 23 includes post-match data breakdowns. Use this info to see what you’re doing well and where you need improvement.

Post-Match Insights
Look at stats like possession, shot accuracy, and passing percentage. If you’re constantly losing possession, work on your passing drills.

Video Replay and Analysis
Use the instant replay system to analyze key moments. Find out why you conceded a goal or missed a chance, then make tactical adjustments.

CONCLUSION

FIFA 23 is more than just another annual sports release—it's a deeply layered game with mechanics that reward skill, strategy, and dedication. Whether you're dominating Career Mode, climbing the FUT ranks, or just trying to beat your friends in local matches, there's always room to improve. By mastering the fundamentals, learning the meta strategies, and staying adaptable, you’ll be able to play at a much higher level. FIFA 23 rewards patience, practice, and precision—and now, you’re equipped with the tools to master it all.