The big question is going to be, is "next-gen HyperMotion technology" just creative buzzwordage from some "next-gen HyperWord technology", or is EA's promise of the new tech driving the "most realistic and immersive gameplay experience" for FIFA 22 very real, and very cool?

A big question, to be sure.

We'll get to the inclusion of Aussie football hero Tim Cahill shortly, but for now here's the official line from EA on its big FIFA 22 reveal and what those new words actually mean in the grand scheme of what is pitched (heh) as the true next-gen instalment of the long running franchise.

Powered by HyperMotion, FIFA 22 combines Advanced 11v11 Match Capture and proprietary machine learning technology to deliver the most realistic, fluid and responsive football experience for next-gen consoles and Stadia, unlocking the raw emotion, passion and physicality of the world’s game.

HyperMotion technology enabled the integration of the first-ever motion capture of 22 professional footballers playing at high intensity. Additionally, EA’s proprietary machine learning algorithm learns from more than 8.7 million frames of advanced match capture, then writes new animations in real time to create organic football movement across a variety of interactions on the pitch. Whether it’s a shot, pass or cross, HyperMotion transforms how players move on and off the ball.

That's a fairly big promise, really. And if it pans out and delivers, could change the sports game landscape moving forward, not just for FIFA and EA, but for other major sports titles across the board.

“FIFA 22 offers millions of fans around the world a chance to engage with the sport they love in an unprecedented way,” said Nick Wlodyka, GM, EA SPORTS FIFA via press release. “Each player experiences FIFA in their own way but on-pitch gameplay is the unifying constant, so we’re excited to offer deep innovation there. HyperMotion elevates that even further on next-gen consoles and Stadia and completely changes the feel of the game”.

The new game also offers deep and innovative features across other parts of gameplay and our most popular modes including Career Mode, VOLTA FOOTBALL, Pro Clubs and FIFA Ultimate Team™. Fans can expect more consistency and distinct personalities between the posts with a complete goalkeeper system rebuild, an all-new Create a Club experience in Career Mode, reimagined gameplay in VOLTA FOOTBALL, and the introduction of FIFA Ultimate Team Heroes, completely new items that represent the stories and glory of cult players and fan favorites. More news on FIFA 22 innovation will follow throughout the summer.

In addition to all of the above, for Aussie and football fans and history buffs, Tim Cahill is back in FIFA 22 as part of the game's FUT Heroes lineup:

Tim Cahill
Premier League
Tim Cahill was known all over Premier League for his all-round chaos potential in the box. Especially dangerous with his heading technique, but Cahill had a wide range of finishes in his locker. Like the sublime overhead kick he scored in 2007. It's what FUT Heroes are made of.

Releasing on all platforms except Switch (for now) this October 1, FIFA 22 is shaping to be the most important entry in the series, maybe ever.

Check out a trailer highlighting all of the above, embedded below.