Rossi’s journey in football management began in 2004 with Italian club Lumezzane, marking the start of an illustrious coaching career. His story intertwines with the evolution of FIFA video games, notably FIFA 97, a significant release in the series. FIFA 97, developed by EA Canada and published by Electronic Arts, was notable for being the fourth installment in the FIFA series and the second to utilize the Virtual Stadium engine, marking a leap in gaming technology.
One of the game’s highlights is the range of FIFA cards featuring Cristiano Ronaldo. Since FIFA 10, Ronaldo has appeared in 96 cards across four positions (ST, LW, RW, LM), with ratings varying from 87 to 99. The game’s realism is further enhanced by featuring football legends like Frank de Boer, Jason McAteer, and David Ginola, the latter gracing the cover of FIFA 97.
The FIFA series, including FIFA 97, is known for its comprehensive soundtrack, adding an auditory dimension to the gaming experience. These soundtracks have become a staple of the series, contributing significantly to its cultural impact. Moreover, the FIFA video games, such as FIFA 07 Soccer, FIFA 99, and FIFA 2006, are celebrated for their smooth, lifelike 3D graphics and motion-captured movements, with FIFA 97 being one of the first to introduce three-dimensional characters.
EA Canada’s innovation in gaming is evident in FIFA Soccer 97, where 27 players were rendered using Motion Blending Technology. This technology allowed for fluid, continuous gameplay, a significant advancement at the time. The series has continued to evolve, offering players the chance to build their dream squads and engage in matches against AI or other players, illustrating the game’s enduring appeal and influence on football fans worldwide.
