The PS2 FIFA Soccer 12 installment in the soccer series is very different from the other console and PC versions of the 2012 game. It does not share any of the novelties introduced in those versions and is very similar in gameplay and features to FIFA Soccer 2011 and those of the years before. This PS2 version is still based on the FIFA Soccer 07 engine and uses the same commentary. The main addition is the updated player listings, jerseys and competitions.

It offers different modes of play such as Kick Off to play a simple exhibition game with either Be A Pro or Be A Keeper mode (where the player can play as a either a single player or a keeper on a team depending on the chosen mode). The Career mode offers a chance to play as either a player, player/coach or manage a team with Manager mode. Accomplishment mode is where the player has to beat certain scenarios/win trophies in order to unlock fan shop points.

The game also contains the usual Season and Tournament modes and also a Practice mode as well. In the Fan Shop, the player can unlock alternateive sound effects and two classic teams. Stadium packs unlock stadiums that can be used in Practice mode. Additional football and third kits can be unlocked as well.