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FIFA 23, the latest iteration in the world-renowned soccer video game series developed by EA Sports, has garnered both praise and criticism since its release. While the game offers numerous improvements, one specific area has received considerable attention and frustration from the community: the Artificial Intelligence (AI) defense system. The AI-controlled defenders in FIFA 23 are often seen as inconsistent, overly aggressive, or passive, leading to a lack of realism and frustrating gameplay for many players. In this article, we will explore the complexities and challenges posed by FIFA 23's AI defense system, how it impacts both casual and competitive players, and discuss possible improvements that could make the game more enjoyable and realistic.
Understanding the Role of AI Defenders in FIFA 23
Before diving into the specific issues, it's important to first understand the role of AI defenders in FIFA 23. As players control only one character on the pitch, AI-controlled teammates play a critical role in ensuring the team’s overall performance. These defenders are responsible for intercepting passes, making tackles, tracking opposition players, and positioning themselves effectively to block shots on goal.AI's Defensive Tasks
In theory, the AI defenders should seamlessly handle the defensive duties, working as an extension of the player’s actions. They should react to the attacking threat in real-time, pressuring opponents, intercepting passes, and positioning themselves effectively to prevent goal-scoring opportunities. FIFA 23 uses a combination of tactical, physical, and statistical models to dictate how AI defenders behave during matches.The Tactical System Behind AI Defenders
EA Sports has implemented a tactical system in FIFA 23 that allows players to adjust the defensive behavior of AI teammates. This can range from defensive pressing, passive positioning, to more aggressive interceptions. The hope is that this system will allow players to tailor the AI’s defensive approach based on personal preferences or the opponent's style of play. However, while this system provides customization, it is far from perfect.The Aggressive Defense Problem: AI Overcommitment
One of the most frequent complaints among FIFA 23 players is the tendency of AI defenders to overcommit. In many situations, defenders rush out of position in a desperate attempt to win the ball or intercept a pass, leaving vast spaces in the defensive line that are easily exploited by opponents.The Dangers of Overcommitting
When an AI defender overcommits, the entire defensive structure can collapse, leading to a high-risk situation. Opponents can exploit these gaps by launching quick counterattacks, often resulting in goals. In real-life soccer, defenders are trained to stay patient, contain attackers, and work together as a unit. FIFA 23’s AI defenders, however, frequently make decisions that go against these fundamental principles, leading to inconsistent defensive performances.Example Scenarios
- Scenario 1: A defender, while trying to block a shot from an attacker, rushes out too early and leaves the far side of the goal exposed. The attacker easily passes the ball to a teammate for a tap-in.
- Scenario 2: During a counterattack, an AI defender races forward, trying to intercept a pass but misses completely, allowing the opponent to exploit the gap and score.
The Passive Defense Problem: AI Inactivity and Lack of Urgency
On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are instances where AI defenders appear too passive, failing to track opposition players or make timely interventions. This passivity often leads to moments where attackers are left unchallenged or unpressured in dangerous areas, ultimately resulting in scoring opportunities.The Lack of Urgency
One of the most glaring issues is when AI defenders fail to react in a timely manner to threatening situations. For example, a player may break into the box, and an AI defender may simply watch as the attacker approaches without making any attempt to close them down or block the shot. This lack of urgency undermines the defensive integrity of the team, often leaving goalkeepers exposed.Example Scenarios
- Scenario 1: An AI defender lazily jogs behind an opponent who is sprinting down the wing, failing to track their movements and allowing a dangerous cross into the penalty area.
- Scenario 2: A through ball is played into the box, and the AI defender is within a few yards of the striker but inexplicably fails to make a challenge, allowing an easy finish.