What Time Does TOTY Come Out?
The release of the Team of the Year (TOTY) in FIFA is one of the most anticipated events in the gaming calendar. Gamers and football fans alike eagerly await the reveal of the best players of the year, as it not only celebrates their real-life performances but also brings exciting updates to the game. If you’re wondering what time does TOTY come out, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into the details and explore everything you need to know about the TOTY release.
Understanding TOTY in FIFA
For those new to FIFA, TOTY stands for Team of the Year. It is an annual event where EA Sports, the developers of the FIFA series, selects the best-performing footballers from the past year and releases special in-game cards with boosted stats. These cards are highly sought after by players, as they offer significant upgrades to their squads in Ultimate Team mode.
Why TOTY Matters
The TOTY event is more than just a celebration of football excellence. It has a significant impact on the game’s meta, influencing player preferences and market trends. The release of TOTY cards often causes a stir in the FIFA community, with players actively participating in speculation, trading, and Squad Building Challenges (SBCs).
The Release Time of TOTY
Historically, EA Sports has maintained a consistent schedule for major events like TOTY. While the exact release time may vary slightly from year to year, there are some patterns you can rely on:
TOTY Announcement: The official reveal of the TOTY squad typically happens in late December or early January. EA Sports usually announces the team through their social media channels and the FIFA website.
Card Release: Following the announcement, the TOTY cards are released in the game. This usually happens on a Friday evening or Monday morning, aligning with the typical update schedule for FIFA.
Time Zones: For global releases, the exact time often depends on your region. In the UK, updates typically go live around 6 PM GMT, while in the US, it’s usually 12 PM PST or 3 PM EST.
Factors Influencing Release Time
While EA Sports tends to stick to a routine, there are external factors that could affect the release time:
Real-World Events: The timing of major football events, such as the FIFA World Cup or the UEFA Champions League final, can influence the release schedule.
Competition Balancing: EA Sports might adjust the release time to avoid clashing with other in-game events or promotions.
Technical Considerations: Server maintenance or technical updates can sometimes delay the release of TOTY cards.
Preparing for TOTY
Knowing what time does TOTY come out is just the first step. To make the most of this event, here are some tips to help you prepare:
Save Your Coins: The TOTY event often causes a surge in player prices. Having a well-stocked coin balance will give you an edge in snapping up the best deals.
Monitor the Market: Keep an eye on player prices in the lead-up to TOTY. Some players may see their values drop as investors sell to prepare for the new cards.
Complete SBCs Early: If you have any pending Squad Building Challenges, it’s a good idea to complete them before TOTY hits. This will free up space in your club and give you more flexibility.
Case Study: TOTY 2023
To give you a better idea, let’s look at the TOTY 2023 release as a case study. The official announcement was made on January 12, 2023, with the cards being released in the game on January 13, 2023, at 6 PM GMT. This aligns with the typical release window and time zones mentioned earlier.
The TOTY 2023 squad featured stars like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland, and the event was accompanied by various in-game promotions and SBCs. Players who acted quickly were able to capitalize on the market fluctuations and secure some of the best cards in the game.
Conclusion
While the exact release time of TOTY can vary, understanding the patterns and preparing accordingly will give you a significant advantage. Whether you’re a seasoned FIFA veteran or a new player, the TOTY event is an exciting time to engage with the game and enhance your Ultimate Team.
By staying informed and keeping an eye on official updates, you’ll be ready to jump into action as soon as the TOTY cards drop. Remember, timing is everything in FIFA, and being among the first to react can make all the difference.