FIFA 96 was the first FIFA game to use 3D polygonal graphics for its players and stadiums.
Earlier entries, including FIFA International Soccer and FIFA 95, used sprites or other largely two-dimensional visual techniques. FIFA 96 marked a major visual transition by presenting footballers and match environments as polygon-based 3D models.
The game was released in 1995 and used the slogan “Next Generation Soccer,” reflecting its move toward the newer generation of console hardware. It appeared on platforms including the Sega Saturn, PlayStation and Sega 32X.
The change is sometimes confused with later improvements such as fully 3D stadiums, more detailed animations or new game engines. Those enhancements arrived progressively, but FIFA 96 is the key series milestone associated with the initial move to 3D polygonal presentation.