by DAVE MARTINEZ

NEW YORK, N.Y. – Nearly 500 guests swarmed New York City’s Highline Ballroom Monday evening to celebrate the long-awaited release of the much-anticipated FIFA 16 video game.

Amongst the horde were members of the World Champion U.S. Women’s National Team, including Sydney Leroux, Abby Wambach, Christen Press and others. New York City FC players RJ Allen, Khiry Shelton and Tony Taylor joined nearly the entire New York Red Bulls starting XI contingent, including Bradley and Shaun Wright-Phillips, Luis Robles, Dax McCarty, Lloyd Sam and more, representing the local pro MLS sides.

“This is huge,” McCarty said. “This crowd goes to show the popularity of the FIFA game. Just an amazing atmosphere.”

But the guest list didn’t stop there. MLS favorite and recording star Lupe Fiasco took the stage to close the night, while several other personalities swarmed about the dance floor in search of their next dance — or their next game.

Two stations were made available to play the actual game in the main hall, with an addition station on the second floor VIP lounge. Demand to play the game was so high, lines spilled into the dance area of both floors. However, that didn’t deter people from waiting to get their first taste of the game. Among the horde was New York City FC fan Jose Padilla, who said he would stand there “all night” to get in on a match.

“It doesn’t matter to me,” he tells EoS. “I’ll wait until I can’t wait anymore to get a game in!”

As for the game itself, reviews were positive. FIFA has tweaked its presentation from last year’s offering, improving both the responsiveness of the actual game and the presentation as well.

“EA Sports continues to give us the best soccer experience with FIFA 16,” said Oscar Martinez, head of NYCFC Supporters’ Group Brown Bag SC. “The new first touch feature is great. Just waiting for the Brown Bag FC kit to come out as a download!”

The addition of several Women’s National Teams was also well received, drawing many in attendance to pick among the 12 available sides — including the U.S. Women’s team.

Stick with EoS for a full review of this year’s FIFA offering in the weeks to come. Meanwhile, you can get your copy of the game today! FIFA 16 is available at all major video game retailers nationwide.