The Elastico stands out as one of the most deceptive and effective skill moves in FIFA 23, allowing players to feint one direction and explode the opposite way. Popularized by legends like Ronaldinho, this 5-star skill move requires precise right-stick input and is exclusive to players with top-tier skill ratings. Mastering it can turn tight defensive situations into goal-scoring opportunities, especially in high-pressure areas like the penalty box.
Understanding the Elastico Mechanics
At its core, the Elastico involves a rapid flick of the ball from one foot to the other, creating a burst of speed in the opposite direction. In FIFA 23, timing and player stance are crucial—executing from a standstill amplifies speed and reliability. The move works best against approaching defenders, pulling them one way before leaving them behind.
Key factors for success include player momentum, defender proximity, and foot dominance. Left-footed players mirror inputs compared to right-footed ones due to FIFA 23’s enhanced foot-specific animations, adding realism and challenge.
Basic Controls for All Platforms
Performing the standard Elastico is straightforward once practiced. Use the right analog stick to initiate a clockwise rotation for right-footed players. Here’s a breakdown:
| Move | Xbox | PlayStation | PC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Elastico | Right Stick: Rotate clockwise (3 o’clock to 6 o’clock) | Right Stick: Rotate clockwise (3 o’clock to 6 o’clock) | Pad 6 to Pad 4 clockwise |
| Reverse Elastico | Right Stick: Rotate anti-clockwise (9 o’clock to 6 o’clock) | Right Stick: Rotate anti-clockwise (9 o’clock to 6 o’clock) | Pad 4 to Pad 6 anti-clockwise |
Practice in the skill games arena to build muscle memory. A full 180-degree rotation ensures the player exits precisely where intended.
Advanced Elastico Variations
FIFA 23 expands the Elastico family with aerial and combo moves for versatile playstyles. These require higher skill ratings and precise flicks but reward with unpredictable flair.
| Variation | Xbox Controls | PlayStation Controls | PC Controls | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In Air Elastico | Flick RS right, then left | Flick RS right, then left | Tap Pad 6, then Pad 4 | Medium |
| Reverse In Air Elastico | Flick RS left, then right | Flick RS left, then right | Tap Pad 4, then Pad 6 | Medium |
| Triple Elastico | Quarter roll bottom-left to right, half roll right to left | Quarter roll bottom-left to right, half roll right to left | Pad 2 quarter to Pad 6, then half-moon to Pad 4 | High |
| Hocus Pocus | Quarter roll right to left, half roll left to right | Quarter roll right to left, half roll left to right | Pad 6 quarter to Pad 4, half-moon to Pad 6 | High |
| Elastico Chop (Right) | Hold RB + RS anti-clockwise left to right | Hold R1 + RS anti-clockwise left to right | N/A | Medium |
| Elastico Chop (Left) | Hold RB + RS clockwise right to left | Hold R1 + RS clockwise right to left | N/A | Medium |
These variants shine in open play or mid-air, chaining seamlessly into sprints or shots.
Optimal Scenarios for Elastico Execution
- 1v1 Duels: Face defenders head-on at medium distance. The feint draws their lunge, allowing a burst past.
- Penalty Area: Use after a fake shot (L1/LB stop) to create shooting lanes near or far post.
- Standing Still: Quicker activation and higher success rate—ideal for baiting pressure.
- Transition Moments: Burst into space post-move with R2/RT sprint for clean breakaways.
Avoid spamming in midfield; the risk of dispossession is high if mistimed.
Pro Tips to Perfect Your Elastico
Elevate from novice to expert with these strategies:
- Choose 5-star skillers like Vinícius Jr., Neymar, or Mbappé for fluid animations.
- Practice foot-specific inputs: Left-footers reverse directions.
- Combine with ball rolls or heel-to-heels for unpredictability.
- Time against aggressive AI or online opponents approaching at jogging pace.
- Exit directionally: End stick rotation where you want to go.
- Use in Volta or Pro Clubs for team synergy.
Record replays to analyze failures—common issues include rushed inputs or poor player orientation.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
| Mistake | Symptom | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Insufficient Rotation | Player stutters or fails move | Commit full 180 degrees smoothly |
| Wrong Foot Input | Inverted direction | Adapt for left-footed players |
| Moving Too Fast | Slow execution | Stop completely first |
| Overuse in Open Space | Easy interception | Reserve for tight spots |
Addressing these boosts consistency to near 100% in trained hands.
Elastico in Competitive Play
In FIFA 23’s meta, Elastico counters defensive setups like drop-backs. Pros chain it with La Croqueta or Ball Roll Fake for division-rising dominance. Online, it exploits laggy connections, bursting past delayed reactions. Track patch notes—EA balances skills seasonally, but Elastico remains potent.
Ranked playlists reward mastery; integrate into custom tactics with high-width attacks feeding flank dribblers.
Training Drills for Mastery
- Arena Warm-Up: 50 reps each variant, focusing on clean exits.
- Squats Mode: Beat AI defenders repeatedly in box simulations.
- Rivals Practice: Test live against humans, note timings.
- Slow-Mo Review: Use training speed sliders to dissect inputs.
- Combo Chains: Link Elastico to 10+ skill sequences.
Dedicate 15 minutes daily—visible improvement in a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which players can do the Elastico in FIFA 23?
Only 5-star skill move players like Ronaldinho icons, Rashford, or Dembélé. Check in-game stats.
Does Elastico work on left-footed players?
Yes, but inputs reverse for authentic animation.
Best time to use Elastico?
Standing still vs. approaching defenders in the box.
Can you Elastico while sprinting?
Possible but slower; standstill is optimal.
Elastico vs. Reverse: When to choose each?
Regular for leftward bursts, reverse for rightward—match defender position.
Evolving the Skill in Future Titles
FIFA 23 refined Elastico with HyperMotion tech for realistic footwork. Expect iterations in EA FC series, potentially adding more variants or stamina costs. Stay updated via official EA forums.
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References
- The ELASTICOS ARE BACK in FIFA 23 — YouTube (Tutorial Video). 2022.
- How to Do an Elastico in FIFA 23 — Operation Sports. 2022. https://www.operationsports.com/how-to-do-an-elastico-in-fifa-23/
- The ELASTICO is BACK in FIFA 23 — YouTube (Tutorial Video). 2022.
- ELASTICO/REVERSE ELASTICO FULL TUTORIAL FIFA 23 — YouTube (Tutorial Video). 2022.