"Beware: may cause interdimensional radioactive monster-causing creature to appear..."

So it would appear that, for the next 12 months, Xbox 360 is the only place you'll be able to play a decent game of futball (or soccer, for you north Americans. Of which I am one).

Now, before I continue, I will concede that neither Fifa '07 or Winning Eleven were announced for the PS3 or Nintendo Wii, so a part of this is probably Microsoft's spin. That being said, this is still a pretty big deal, in my opinion, at least as it relates to those consoles. For one, EA wouldn't just "decided" not to release a copy of one of their staple franchises on two next-gen consoles--or one next-gen, one new-gen, if you prefer--for no particular reason. One reason could be because Microsoft through heaps of gold coins at them in bags marked with dollar signs. It's very likely, and a smart move on their part. They know they can't beat Nintendo and Sony in Japan, so they try to tighten their grip on the North American and (more so) European markets.

Then again, I think the length of this deals exclusivity is a bit more telling. For one, this is not the first multi-platform release that has been held back a year on the PS3. Could it be a sign that EA isn't quite sure about the PS3 and Wii? Perhaps they're unsure of the financial viability of rushing development for the two consoles at launch, considering the increasing development costs. Could also be a sign that the PS3 is indeed more difficult to program for than the other consoles, which developers have been whispering? Either are likely. In any case, this is a win for Microsoft, no matter how big or small.

God I love speculation.

Peace,
Ram