Are you ready to experience the beautiful game from your couch? Whether you’re dreaming of lifting the World Cup or just want to score some spectacular goals after a long day, the PS4 has transformed into soccer’s digital playground.
From photorealistic simulations that’ll make you question if you’re watching a real match to arcade-style romps that prioritize pure fun, there’s a soccer game tailored for every type of player.
You’ll discover the best soccer games for PS4 that deliver everything from career mode depth to lightning-fast multiplayer action.
This guide breaks down the top titles across different styles and preferences, helping you find the perfect match for your gaming taste. Ready to lace up those virtual boots?
EA Sports FC 25
EA Sports FC 25 represents the pinnacle of soccer simulation on PS4, continuing the legacy that FIFA built while carving out its own identity. This isn’t just another yearly update – it’s a statement that soccer gaming has evolved beyond simple button-mashing.
The HyperMotion V technology captures real player movements with unprecedented accuracy, making every touch, pass, and celebration feel authentic. You’ll notice how players now react more naturally to loose balls, and the improved AI means your teammates actually make intelligent runs instead of standing around like confused mannequins. According to TechRadar’s comprehensive review, these improvements create “a near-perfect sports game experience.”
Ultimate Team remains the crown jewel, but Chemistry has been completely overhauled. Building your dream squad now requires more strategic thinking than just cramming superstars together. Career Mode also received significant attention, with enhanced player development paths and more realistic transfer negotiations that actually challenge your management skills.
The presentation quality rivals broadcast television, complete with authentic stadium atmospheres and commentary that doesn’t repeat the same tired phrases every match. Online multiplayer runs smoother than previous iterations, though you’ll still occasionally encounter that one player who thinks every match is the Champions League final. You can find the complete game details on PlayStation’s official FC 25 showcase page.
EA Sports FC 24
EA Sports FC 24 marked a pivotal transition year, establishing the new franchise identity while maintaining the soccer excellence fans expected. This title proved that dropping the FIFA name didn’t mean dropping the quality.
Tactical flexibility takes center stage here, with PlayStyles that actually impact how players behave on the pitch. Watching Erling Haaland bulldoze through defenses or Kevin De Bruyne thread impossible passes feels distinctly different from controlling other players. The system adds personality to your squad without overwhelming casual players with complexity.
Women’s football receives proper attention with expanded leagues and improved player likenesses. The inclusion of the Women’s World Cup brings legitimacy and excitement that was long overdue. Career Mode storytelling improved significantly, though it still doesn’t quite reach the narrative heights of other sports games.
Volta Football returns with refined mechanics that make street soccer feel less gimmicky and more genuinely entertaining. The smaller pitches and modified rules create a faster-paced experience that serves as perfect contrast to traditional 11v11 matches.
FIFA 23
FIFA 23 delivered a memorable farewell to the FIFA brand, cramming decades of soccer gaming evolution into one final, feature-packed experience. This swan song reminded everyone why FIFA dominated soccer gaming for so long.
The World Cup integration felt seamless rather than tacked-on, allowing you to relive Qatar 2022 or create your own tournament scenarios. HyperMotion2 technology made player animations more fluid, particularly in crowded penalty areas where realistic jostling and positioning became crucial.
Career Mode received its most significant overhaul in years, introducing personality points and dynamic storylines that actually influenced your player’s development. Managing a created character through the ranks felt more engaging than the sterile progression systems of previous entries.
Ultimate Team chemistry underwent major changes, prioritizing player positions and leagues over nationality. This shift encouraged more creative squad building while reducing the dominance of certain “meta” formations that had plagued earlier versions.
The women’s game expanded with additional leagues and tournaments, though the commentary still occasionally jarred with mismatched enthusiasm levels. Online performance remained solid, with dedicated servers handling most matches without significant lag issues.
FIFA 22
FIFA 22 introduced HyperMotion technology that revolutionized player movement and ball physics. Watching 22 real players captured simultaneously created animation data that made every match feel more organic and unpredictable.
Career Mode’s Create-a-Club feature finally let players build their own teams from scratch, complete with custom kits, stadiums, and transfer policies. Starting in League Two and climbing to Premier League glory provided a satisfying progression that previous career modes lacked.
The gameplay struck an excellent balance between accessibility and depth. New players could enjoy matches without studying complex control schemes, while veterans discovered nuanced techniques for advanced play. Defending required more skill and timing, eliminating the automated tackling that had made previous entries feel too easy.
Ultimate Team introduced Hero cards celebrating football legends, adding nostalgic value alongside the usual superstar chase. The market remained active throughout the game’s lifecycle, maintaining engagement long after release.
Pro Clubs received meaningful updates with improved customization options and better progression systems. Playing with friends felt more rewarding as skill points actually translated into noticeable on-field improvements.
FIFA 21
FIFA 21 launched during a challenging period but delivered surprisingly robust gameplay improvements that kept players engaged through unusual circumstances. The Agile Dribbling system revolutionized one-on-one situations, giving skilled players more tools to beat defenders.
Career Mode received Interactive Match Simulation, allowing players to jump into crucial moments without playing every minute. This feature proved invaluable for manager-focused players who wanted strategic control without the time commitment of full matches.
Ultimate Team’s chemistry system became more flexible, encouraging diverse squad building rather than forcing players into rigid formations. The addition of Stadium Customization let players create unique home environments, though options remained somewhat limited.
Volta Football expanded with new locations and game modes, though the novelty wore off quickly for most players. The street soccer mechanics felt solid but lacked the depth needed for long-term engagement.
Online performance improved notably, with smoother matchmaking and reduced input delay. Weekend League remained competitive and engaging, though the rewards structure continued favoring heavy time investment over casual play.
FIFA 20
FIFA 20 represented a turning point in the franchise’s evolution, introducing features that would define future entries. The gameplay felt more deliberate and tactical, requiring patience and positioning over frantic button-mashing.
Career Mode underwent significant improvements after years of stagnation. Press conferences, morale systems, and enhanced youth development added depth that previous entries sorely lacked. Managing player happiness became a genuine consideration rather than an afterthought.
Ultimate Team introduced Season Objectives that provided clear progression paths beyond weekend grinding. The addition of Icon Swaps democratized access to legendary players, though the requirements still demanded considerable time investment.
Volta Football made its debut, bringing street soccer to the FIFA universe. While initially exciting, the mode’s limited depth became apparent after extended play. The smaller teams and modified rules created fun variety, but lacked the strategic complexity of traditional matches.
The Women’s World Cup integration felt comprehensive and authentic, with proper broadcast presentation and accurate team rosters. This addition demonstrated FIFA’s commitment to representing football’s full spectrum.
eFootball 2024
eFootball 2024 emerges as Konami’s bold attempt to reclaim soccer simulation supremacy through a free-to-play model that prioritizes authentic gameplay over flashy presentation. The transition from PES to eFootball continues evolving, and this iteration shows genuine promise despite some persistent challenges noted in Metacritic’s review aggregation.
The ball physics feel exceptionally realistic, with passes, shots, and touches responding naturally to player positioning and momentum. Defenders actually challenge for headers properly, and goalkeepers make saves that look humanly possible rather than superhuman. This attention to realistic movement creates matches that flow more like actual soccer.
Master League returns with enhanced depth, offering campaign progression that feels meaningful rather than repetitive. Building your team through strategic transfers and youth development provides long-term engagement that many competitors lack. The AI actually adapts to your tactics, forcing you to vary your approach instead of exploiting the same formations repeatedly.
MyClub (the Ultimate Team equivalent) operates on a more generous economy than its EA counterpart, though building top-tier squads still requires significant investment. The gacha-style player acquisition can frustrate purists, but the gameplay foundation remains solid enough to overcome these concerns.
Online performance varies depending on your connection and server location, but dedicated servers handle most matches adequately. The smaller player base means longer matchmaking times, especially in specialized modes. For those interested in trying the game, PlayStation’s official eFootball page provides download information and system requirements.
eFootball 2023
eFootball 2023 marked a crucial stabilization period after the franchise’s rocky transition from Pro Evolution Soccer. Konami addressed many launch issues while maintaining the core gameplay that distinguished PES from its competition.
The pace feels more deliberate and strategic compared to arcade-style alternatives. Building attacks requires patience and precision, with rushed passes frequently intercepted by alert defenders. This slower tempo won’t appeal to everyone, but creates a more thoughtful soccer experience.
Player individuality shines through subtle animations and behavioral differences. Controlling Messi feels distinctly different from using a tall target striker, with unique touches and movement patterns that reflect real-world playing styles. This attention to detail elevates the simulation beyond generic player stats.
The graphics engine produces stunning visuals during optimal conditions, with realistic lighting and detailed player models. However, performance can stutter on standard PS4 hardware during complex sequences, particularly in packed stadiums with multiple particle effects.
Dream Team mode provides compelling progression through player development and strategic squad building. The emphasis on tactical flexibility over simply collecting the highest-rated players creates more engaging team management.
eFootball PES 2021 Season Update
eFootball PES 2021 Season Update served as a bridge between the classic PES formula and Konami’s new direction. This final traditional PES entry delivered refined gameplay that reminded fans why the series earned such devoted following.
The Master League campaign provided deep management simulation with realistic transfer negotiations and player development. Building a team from lower divisions to European competition felt genuinely rewarding, with each promotion representing significant achievement rather than inevitable progression.
MyClub offered generous player acquisition compared to contemporary alternatives, allowing skilled players to build competitive squads without extensive microtransaction investment. The auction system created interesting market dynamics that rewarded timing and strategy over pure spending power.
Gameplay emphasized technical skill and tactical awareness over pace and power. Successful players learned to read defensive positioning and exploit space rather than relying on speed alone. This approach created more varied and strategic matches.
The updated rosters reflected the 2020-21 season accurately, with proper team compositions and authentic kits. However, licensing limitations meant many clubs appeared with generic names and badges, reducing immersion for casual fans.
eFootball PES 2020
eFootball PES 2020 represented the peak of traditional PES gameplay before the franchise’s dramatic transformation. This entry delivered soccer simulation that prioritized realism and tactical depth over accessibility and flash.
The AI exhibited remarkable intelligence, with teammates making appropriate runs and defenders maintaining proper positioning. Matches felt like chess games where patient buildup play trumped frantic rushing. This deliberate pace created satisfying moments when carefully constructed attacks finally broke through stubborn defenses.
Player stats translated meaningfully to on-field performance, with clear distinctions between speed demons and technical playmakers. Star players felt genuinely special rather than marginally better than average performers. This differentiation made team selection strategic rather than simply choosing the highest-rated options.
Master League provided extensive customization options for tactics and training regimens. Managing player morale and fitness became crucial considerations that influenced match outcomes. The depth rivaled actual soccer management, though the learning curve intimidated casual players.
MyClub featured more balanced player acquisition than later entries, with skilled play often overcoming superior squads. The matchmaking system generally paired opponents fairly, creating competitive matches regardless of team strength.
eFootball PES 2019
eFootball PES 2019 established many gameplay foundations that would influence future entries while maintaining the series’ commitment to authentic soccer simulation. This iteration struck an excellent balance between accessibility and depth.
The passing mechanics required genuine skill and timing, with poorly executed passes frequently intercepted by alert defenders. Building attacks demanded patience and positioning rather than simply sprinting toward goal. This emphasis on technique created more rewarding gameplay for dedicated players.
Licensed teams featured authentic stadiums and proper crowd atmospheres that enhanced immersion significantly. Playing at Camp Nou or Old Trafford felt special, with unique chants and visual details that captured each venue’s character. Unlicensed teams suffered by comparison, appearing generic and sterile.
Master League included compelling storylines and realistic player development that made long-term campaigns engaging. Youth academy prospects provided hope for the future while veteran players declined naturally. This lifecycle management added strategic depth beyond simple squad rotation.
Online performance remained solid throughout the game’s lifecycle, with dedicated servers handling most matches without significant lag. The smaller player base meant longer matchmaking times, particularly in specialized modes.
Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions
Captain Tsubasa: Rise of New Champions transforms beloved anime into interactive soccer entertainment that prioritizes spectacle over simulation. This isn’t your typical soccer game – it’s a celebration of impossible moves and over-the-top action.
The special moves system creates moments of pure anime magic, with players executing gravity-defying kicks and supernatural defensive maneuvers. Watching Tsubasa launch into his signature drive shot or seeing goalkeepers perform impossible saves captures the source material’s spirit perfectly. These sequences feel like participating in animated episodes rather than traditional soccer matches.
Story mode follows the anime’s narrative faithfully, introducing characters and rivalries that fans will recognize immediately. New players can enjoy the dramatic storylines without prior knowledge, though familiarity with the source material enhances the experience significantly. The Japanese voice acting maintains authenticity that English dubbing might have compromised.
The gameplay blends traditional soccer mechanics with arcade-style special abilities. Building spirit energy throughout matches to unleash devastating techniques creates strategic depth beyond simple passing and shooting. Team composition matters as different players complement each other’s abilities.
Multiplayer modes support both local and online competition, though the player base remains relatively small. Finding matches requires patience, but the unique gameplay provides entertainment that standard soccer simulations can’t match.
Rocket League
Rocket League revolutionized soccer gaming by removing human players entirely, replacing them with rocket-powered cars that can fly, flip, and demolish opponents. This seemingly absurd concept created one of the most addictive multiplayer experiences ever conceived.
The core mechanics appear simple – drive your car into a giant ball to score goals – but mastering aerial maneuvers and precise ball control requires hundreds of hours of practice. The skill ceiling extends infinitely upward, with professional players executing maneuvers that seem physically impossible. This depth keeps matches engaging long after the initial novelty wears off.
Customization options allow extensive personalization of vehicles, from paint jobs and wheels to goal explosions and victory celebrations. The cosmetic system provides progression rewards without affecting gameplay balance, ensuring that skilled players with basic cars can compete against opponents with premium aesthetics.
Competitive ranked play features multiple playlists accommodating different team sizes and preferences. The ranking system accurately reflects skill levels, creating balanced matches that challenge players appropriately. Climbing from Bronze to Champion requires genuine improvement rather than time investment alone.
Cross-platform play connects players across all gaming systems, maintaining healthy player populations and reducing matchmaking wait times. The active community creates consistent competition regardless of your schedule or preferred game mode.
Active Soccer 2 DX
Active Soccer 2 DX delivers old-school soccer gaming with modern conveniences, appealing to players who prefer arcade action over realistic simulation. This budget-friendly option provides surprising depth beneath its simplified presentation.
The top-down perspective recalls classic soccer games while offering precise control over player movement and ball handling. Matches flow quickly with minimal interruption, emphasizing continuous action over tactical complexity. This approach works particularly well for local multiplayer sessions with friends.
Team customization includes comprehensive options for creating unique squads with distinctive playing styles. The formation system influences how your team behaves strategically, though the effects remain subtle enough to avoid overwhelming casual players. Experimenting with different setups provides replay value beyond the initial matches.
Single-player tournaments and leagues offer structured progression for solo players, though the AI can become predictable after extended play. The difficulty scaling provides appropriate challenge levels, but lacks the unpredictability that makes human opponents consistently engaging.
The presentation style embraces retro aesthetics without feeling dated or primitive. Clean visuals and responsive controls create an immediately accessible experience that newcomers can enjoy without extensive tutorials or practice sessions.
Super Kickers League
Super Kickers League embraces cartoon-style soccer with exaggerated characters and physics that prioritize fun over realism. This family-friendly approach creates an accessible entry point for younger players while maintaining enough depth for experienced gamers.
The character roster features diverse players with unique abilities and appearances that distinguish them clearly during matches. Power-ups scattered across the field add strategic elements and create unpredictable moments that can shift momentum instantly. These additions keep matches exciting without overwhelming the core soccer gameplay.
Local multiplayer supports up to four players, making it perfect for party gaming sessions. The simplified controls allow newcomers to participate meaningfully without extensive practice, while hidden techniques provide depth for dedicated players to discover. This balance accommodates mixed skill groups effectively.
The art style uses bright colors and smooth animations that create a cheerful atmosphere throughout matches. Stadium designs feature creative themes that add personality to different venues, though the limited selection becomes noticeable during extended play sessions.
Single-player modes include tournament structures and challenge scenarios that provide goals beyond simple exhibition matches. However, the content feels somewhat limited compared to more comprehensive soccer games, making this title better suited for occasional rather than dedicated play.
Football, Tactics & Glory
Football, Tactics & Glory revolutionizes soccer gaming by transforming it into a turn-based strategy experience that emphasizes tactical planning over reflexive skill. This unique approach appeals to players who prefer cerebral challenges to fast-paced action.
Each match becomes a puzzle requiring careful consideration of player positioning, movement ranges, and strategic timing. You’ll spend minutes planning the perfect attacking sequence, weighing risks and rewards before committing to actions. This deliberate pace creates tension that traditional real-time soccer games rarely achieve.
The career mode follows your manager’s journey through different leagues and competitions, with realistic transfer markets and player development systems. Building a successful team requires balancing immediate needs with long-term planning, as aging players decline while youth prospects require patience to reach their potential.
Player statistics translate directly into tactical capabilities, with clear distinctions between speedsters who excel at flanking maneuvers and technical players who dominate possession battles. Understanding these differences becomes crucial for constructing effective strategies that exploit opponent weaknesses.
The presentation style uses clean, minimalist graphics that prioritize clarity over visual spectacle. This approach ensures that important tactical information remains visible and accessible during complex sequences. The lack of flashy animations might disappoint some players, but the focus on strategic depth compensates effectively.
Pixel Cup Soccer – Ultimate Edition
Pixel Cup Soccer – Ultimate Edition delivers retro-style soccer gaming with modern features that celebrate classic arcade sports games. The pixelated art style creates nostalgic appeal while maintaining contemporary gameplay standards.
The control scheme emphasizes simplicity and responsiveness, allowing players to execute moves intuitively without complex button combinations. Matches flow smoothly with minimal interruption, creating arcade-style action that prioritizes entertainment over realism. This approach works particularly well for quick gaming sessions.
Team customization includes comprehensive options for creating unique squads with distinctive uniforms and playing styles. The formation system influences tactical behavior subtly, providing strategic depth without overwhelming casual players. Experimenting with different approaches adds replay value to the core gameplay.
Local multiplayer supports multiple players for competitive matches that capture classic party gaming experiences. The simplified mechanics allow newcomers to participate meaningfully while hidden techniques provide depth for dedicated players to master. This balance accommodates mixed skill groups effectively.
The tournament structure provides clear progression goals with championship trophies and unlockable content serving as rewards for successful campaigns. However, the single-player content feels somewhat limited compared to more comprehensive soccer games, making this title better suited for occasional rather than dedicated play.
The PS4’s soccer game library offers something special for every type of player. Whether you’re chasing Ultimate Team glory in EA Sports FC, mastering tactical nuances in eFootball, or launching impossible shots in Captain Tsubasa, your perfect soccer experience awaits. Each game brings unique strengths to the pitch – from photorealistic graphics to innovative mechanics that reinvent the beautiful game entirely.
Your gaming setup is ready. The only question remaining is which cleats you’ll lace up first.
