EA Games latest sporting extravaganza scores its way onto the Android and more importantly, the Xperia system as an exclusive until early next year. However before I get to the crux of this review, FIFA 12 on the Xperia is the best soccer experience on any portable smart device, whether portable console or phone. And then to make this treat even better, EA Sports are actually giving away for FIFA 12 for a limited time!

The Game

In essence, FIFA 12 is almost like its big PC and console brothers, delivering one of the most immersive experiences to date with perfect controls, amazing graphics and all the authentic soccer action for true sport fans. Another highlight is that EA actually holds the license for FIFA so the teams, uniforms and players are all there. This is not some cut down game but a fully blown console experience... although the download is almost 2GB!

With a variety of different gaming modes from leagues to cups and of course, quick matches, this game can be played for short or long bouts, ensuring a variety of diverse options for the player. Add in daily challenges and kick-off (quick game) and you have everything you need for your soccer fix.

I enjoyed the daily challenges which change every day and gives the player 3 attempts at completing some very cool aspect of soccer such as kicking a goal and getting past the defenders. Another feature is that the game saves your replays such as kicking goals and when you replay them, you can change the camera angles which is a nifty feature.

Gameplay

The first thing you will notice about FIFA 12 compared to the previous edition is how well the players control, especially when they have the ball. Controls work extremely well on the Xperia, especially with the thumb pads and the shoulder buttons.

You can use the touch screen for certain aspects of the title such as menus, however the innate controls of the Xperia is what this game has been designed for. I like how the developers have added flags above players which does help on the small screen, especially if some of them go offside. It just helps you in organising your tactics.

Just be warned that the D-Pad is not used in this game, so lovers of the D-Pad need to master the two analog thumb sticks. All in all, it's a very sturdy control system, even with the absence of the D-Pad. The only download to the controls is that people with large hands may find it a little cumbersome.

Graphics & Audio

Graphically, FIFA 12 is a visual treat on the Xperia with console-like graphics. This is not a cut down version of the FIFA series but as mentioned a fully blown graphical experience with realistic player movements and ball physics. Stadiums look realistic and as do the lighting effects with lots of advertising for EA and Sony Ericsson. Music and commentary is equally as impressive as are the soccer effects from the field and the roar of the crowd. This games comes together perfectly for gameplay, graphics and audio.

Final Level

If you're a soccer fanatic and you're an owner of the Xperia, than FIFA 12 is a must have game for your collection. Even if you're not a sporting fan and own an Xperia, there's really no excuse not to download this game. Let me spell it out to you a little more... it's F R E E... that's right, this game is free and more importantly, it's best darn soccer game in the portable gaming world at the moment.

The only issue with the game however is that the download is quite huge and it really needs to be downloaded via a WLAN as opposed to the mobile network. However, with flawless controls, realistic soccer gaming mechanics and lots of replay value (e.g. trophies, replays and achievements), FIFA 12 will definitely keep you busy over the Christmas season!