The Pro Evolution Soccer series is
easily the most definitive soccer title on both the console and PC
gaming world and its latest incarnation has finally arrived on the
PS2 that once again sets new boundaries in one of the most popular
sport games in the world… just like the name suggests, this is
definitely the next evolutionary leap for console soccer games.
Even though EA’s FIFA 07 is highly
superior in the world of graphics, the gameplay still cannot stand
up to Pro Evolution Soccer 6 which is easily one of the most
playable, realistic and enjoyable soccer games on the PlayStation 2.
One of the most noticeable aspects of Pro Evolution Soccer 6 is the
control system of the title that simply flows perfectly with the DualShock controller. Although the learning curve for the title is
rather steep for the beginner player, those more experienced gamers
will have no issue in picking up the controller and kicking away.
The main gameplay theme of Pro
Evolution Soccer 6 offers the player a wide variety of tactics with
realistic game physics. Whether your making a short pass or
attempting to kick a goal, the developers have really give the
player a great range of combinations. However, even if you’re the
most novices of gamers, you can still play the game with your
limited control system. Everything feels so natural in the game and
to make things even more interesting, the title features some great
multiplayer options.
Although the Pro Evolution Soccer
series does have “partial” licensing, it is unfortunately not as
in-depth as EA’s FIFA series which must come down to the player’s
preference. Licensing (good gameplay) vs. no-licensing (excellent
gameplay), although the choice is rather simply, unless you are a
strict eye-candy gamer that wants the best possible graphics for the
system.
Graphically, Pro Evolution Soccer 6
(for this reviewer) is rather impressive on the PlayStation 2 and
even when compared to FIFA 07 side by side, the title does lack a
little in the graphic department. However, all the stadiums, players
and animations have been professionally designed and work
hand-in-hand with the gameplay, whether your players are running
down the field, performing scissor kicks or watching the crowd, one
can be forgiven in thinking that they are watching a real soccer
game.
The title also boasts a plethora of different views but once
again when it comes to a playable view (even as with FIFA), the
top-down view is far superior and also allows for far superior and
more responsive gameplay.
Musically, Pro Evolution Soccer 6
features your stock standard sports soundtrack that although will
give nothing to the genre, it does help immerse the player into the
world of professional soccer. Sound wise, Pro Evolution Soccer 6 is
great and features all the sounds of soccer; from the roars of the
crowd, to the sounds on the field which work hand-in-hand with the
gameplay.
In conclusion, Pro Evolution Soccer 6
is easily the most superior soccer game on the market at the moment
and although it doesn’t contain the same polish of the FIFA series,
this is the title to get if you want exceptional gameplay that will
definitely give you hours upon hours of enjoyment. Extremely
rewarding!