EA recently had a series of announcements relating to its FIFA soccer series. First up, was the announcement of FIFA Street. In development by EA Canada, which is responsible for the normal FIFA series, FIFA Street will be a combination of arcade action blended with the culture of freestyle street soccer. More info can be found at fifastreet.com.

"What FIFA STREET represents is a movement in soccer and a break from the modern game," says Wil Mozell, senior producer for the project. "We are stripping the sport down to its core and delivering a game that's all about freestyle attitude and individual skill, something I believe is at the heart of every soccer fan."

The second announcement deals with a special Xbox Live bundle. Microsoft and EA will compbing to sell the limited edition EA Sports FIFA Football 2005 Xbox Live Starter Kit which will include a full copy of the game, an Xbox Live Voice Communicator and a twelve months subscription to Xbox Live . The bundle will be available in the UK on October 21st, and will retail for the recommended price of £59.99. Says Michel Cassius, senior director, Xbox platform and Marketing, "This is a fantastic offer for football loving gamers throughout Europe - we're giving them the best console on the market, the most successful football game ever and the best gaming experience available at the best value."

Finally, the cover athletes for FIFA Football 2005 were announced. Andriy Shevchenko, Fernando Morientes, and Oswaldo Sanchez will serve as the North American spokesmen. Patrick Viera will replace Sanchez in the European territories.

"All three players represent the global importance of soccer and help make the FIFA franchise the most authentic and dominant video game on the market," said Matt Bilbey, Director of Worldwide Soccer for EA SPORTS. "Shevchenko, Morientes, Sanchez and Viera have each made a significant impact on the sport and each brings a wide range of personality and style to the FIFA Soccer franchise."

FIFA Football 2005 is rated "E" for Everyone, and should hit retails stores across North America next week for $49.99. FIFA Street will release next year for PS2, GC, and Xbox.