Euro 2012 expansion release due to FIFA 12′s popularity, says EA

The reason Euro 2012, announced yesterday, isn't a full-blown title, but rather an extension, is due to the continuing popularity of FIFA 12, EA has said.

EA comms boss Steve Frost has told Gamasutra the release will help the year-round plan of keeping players enticed to the game.

"We felt this was the best way to extend that experience and deliver fresh new content to our fans," he said.

"We expect footy fans will want the opportunity to play UEFA Euro 2012 and experience what it takes to win the tournament under the same conditions their favourite nation will face in the weeks ahead.

"We expect that some fans who may not have FIFA 12 will want to play Euro 2012 and therefore purchase both, but the bigger opportunity for us is to offer our loyal and passionate FIFA fans new content."

Euro 2012 releases on April 24 for PSN, XBL and PC.