Simon Humber, Creative Director of the FIFA series, passed away earlier this year after a fight with cancer. Simon was a huge fan of Portsmouth FC and in tribute to him the FIFA team have included Fratton Park stadium in FIFA 16.
“When you make video games, you spend a great deal of time with people, and shipping an annual title makes a team very close. I worked with Simon daily for seven years, and feel like I – and the team – lost a family member. In terms of his legacy within FIFA, he was the daddy of Ultimate Team, and played a big role in career mode – many of the features coming this year were ones he was leading development on.” – David Rutter, VP and GM, EA SPORTS FIFA, speaking to The Guardian earlier this year.
As development for FIFA 16 was hitting its stride, the team at EA Canada started working with Portsmouth FC to include Fratton Park as a tribute to Simon. From visiting the site to interacting with ground staff, the aim was to make sure that the 117-year-old stadium was authentically replicated in the game.
“Simon was well-known among Pompey fans, his love of life, humorous and caring character ensured he was loved by all who met him. His passion for Pompey, the FIFA game and football in general, was infectious and as such he leaves a legacy of having made a hugely positive impact across all three. Everyone at Pompey is honoured that Fratton Park will appear in FIFA 16 and I know Simon would be ever so proud to see his club featured in this way. He would no doubt hope that it helps spread the word about his beloved club.”-Ashley Brown, Director at PFC, on the Pompey Supporters’ Trust board
