In the Title Update 3.1 forFIFA 21, the option “Disable All Music For Streaming Purposes” has been added. While the update containschanges to Career Mode, Ultimate Team, and Volta Football, it is this particular addition that is the most notable even though it is not mentioned in the patch notes.
FIFA 21always proves to be a popular game among the content creator community, so this addition is welcome for those afraid of copyright strikes taking away their livelihood. The option has been designed for this very purpose, with the footer stating that doing so should “avoid copyright infringements.”
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Ever since thewave of DMCA strikesearlier this month, content creators and streamers have vocalized their immense displeasure towards their content being deleted and platforms like Twitch not providing the means for them to dispute these strikes. There is much confusion surrounding what is and what is not acceptable for the platform considering the litigious nature of record companies regarding music copyright.
With the next-gen versions ofFIFA 21set torelease on December 4th, there will be an increased demand for the game as fans and content creators upgrade to the ninth-generation console of their choice. It is expected that this feature to disable music will be included in the next-gen versions ofFIFA 21at launch.
Every year, there are numerous complaints regardingFIFA, usually regardingthe soccer series' reliance on microtransactions. The one facet of aFIFAgame that always escapes criticism and is instead rewarded with praise from the community is the soundtrack, andFIFA 21is no exception. The licensed soundtrack containing the likes of Dua Lipa, Tame Impala, Charli XCX, and Stormzy provides bops on top of bangers on top of jams. Though it is a shame that streamers will not be able to listen to the soundtrack, a sacrifice must ultimately be made for them to stream the game and maintain their livelihoods.
For streamers, music is the most common reason behind a potential copyright strike. With the world of music copyright being confusing for content creators not skilled in law to navigate, many either use music licensed for streaming or do not have music at all. When the music comes from the game itself, the situation becomes even more confusing. But with the option inFIFA 21to turn off the music now available, content creators should feel safe from the complexities of whatever platform they use. Notably, CD Projekt Red have stated thatCyberpunk 2077’s original soundtrackfeaturing the likes of Grimes, A$AP Rocky, and Run the Jewels should be safe from DMCAs.
FIFA 21is available now for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One, with the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions coming on December 4th.
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