What are the reasons behind Juventus being called Piemonte Calcio in FIFA 22

FIFA 22, the latest installment in the popular video game franchise, has caused quite a stir among football fans. One of the most talked-about changes in the game is regarding the Italian powerhouse Juventus. In previous versions of the game, fans could play as Juventus, but in FIFA 22, the team is now referred to as “Piemonte Calcio.” This decision has left many fans puzzled and curious about the reasons behind the change.

The primary reason behind Juventus being called Piemonte Calcio in FIFA 22 is related to licensing agreements. Juventus signed an exclusive partnership deal with Konami, the creators of Pro Evolution Soccer (PES), which is a direct competitor to the FIFA franchise. As a result, the club’s name, logo, and kits are exclusive to PES, making it impossible for FIFA to use them in their game.

The agreement between Juventus and Konami is part of a growing trend in the gaming industry where clubs and leagues sign exclusive licensing contracts. These contracts ensure that the club’s assets, such as names, logos, and stadiums, are only used in one particular game. These exclusive deals are financially lucrative for the clubs involved, as they receive significant compensation for granting the exclusive license.

By partnering exclusively with Konami, Juventus has gained greater control over its branding and image in the gaming world. This type of agreement allows the club to have a more authentic representation in PES, with accurate player faces, realistic kits, and the iconic Allianz Stadium recreated in detail. Juventus likely signed this contract with the goal of providing fans with a more immersive gaming experience that accurately reflects the club’s identity.

However, the consequences of this exclusive deal also meant that other games, including FIFA 22, had to find alternative ways to represent Juventus. In FIFA 22, the game developers have created a fictional team called Piemonte Calcio, using a generic badge and kit design. The players’ names and faces are still accurate, but the club’s identity has undergone a complete transformation.

While the name Piemonte Calcio refers to the region in which Juventus is based, many fans argue that it doesn’t have the same allure and recognition. Juventus has a rich history and a global brand, and being called Piemonte Calcio takes away from that identity. Nonetheless, FIFA was able to include the team in the game by using this fictional name and altering the club’s characteristics.

Despite the disappointment from fans who were expecting to play as Juventus, the use of Piemonte Calcio in FIFA 22 doesn’t diminish the gameplay experience. The game still offers all the exciting features and realistic gameplay that FIFA is known for, with a wide range of other licensed teams and leagues to choose from.

In conclusion, the reasons behind Juventus being called Piemonte Calcio in FIFA 22 are tied to the club’s exclusive licensing partnership with Konami for its rival game, PES. Although the change in name may disappoint some fans, it is a result of the growing trend of exclusive licensing agreements in the gaming industry. Nonetheless, FIFA 22 continues to offer an enjoyable gaming experience for football fans worldwide, with a plethora of other licensed teams and leagues to explore.