EA talks up Facebook FIFA game

EA Sports is set to launch a new Facebook game called FIFA Superstars to coincide with the real-world FIFA World Cup in South Africa next month.

"Our FIFA products connect fans from all over the world who share a common passion for the sport, and soon our partnership with Playfish will allow us to bring the FIFA brand to the growing Facebook community with a new game called FIFA Superstars," EA Sports president Peter Moore explained on his blog.

"Leveraging our football gaming knowledge and marrying it with the social gaming expertise of our partners at Playfish is sure to provide more great opportunities to bring hundreds of millions of new fans to compete against their friends to win the FIFA World Cup through an engaging interactive football experience.

"More to come on FIFA Superstars coming soon, but in the meantime I'm making sure my television is in tip-top condition, my England jersey is clean and pressed, and the fridge is well-stocked for next month's festivities..."

EA bought Playfish for $300 million late last year even as it cancelled 12 unannounced projects and announced plans to make 1500 people redundant.