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PES 2014
PES 2014 slams its way onto the PlayStation
3 that boasts a new game engine with some amazing physics to create one
of the most realistic Pro Evo Soccer experiences since the franchise
began. The game also removes a few
key components from the previous game such as streamlining the Master
League and removing the equipment system in lieu of a team based point
system that links directly to your players abilities.
Add in a very cool
online multiplayer component and PES, especially with the new Fox engine
is shaping up to be a real contender to FIFA 2014. Although the game does not
have the powerful license line-up of FIFA, thankfully it does include
some of the worlds greats like Christiano Ronaldo who not only looks like him but
also plays like him. There are also another 49 star players and thanks
to the Player ID system, each of these virtual soccer players are
similar to their real-world counterparts in not just looks but also
moves.
Graphically the game is far superior than previous games, however Konami have removed some
of the cutscenes that as a result makes the game a more compelling and a
true sports simulator opposed to an arcade game. When you first see the
graphics, especially in-game, you will be amazed at how realistic the
animation and visuals are. This is especially true with the TrueBall
tech and Motion Animation Stability System that makes everything
considerably more fluid and how the players track the ball and more
importantly how you control them.
For those new to the series, there are
assist settings to help you out with the controls but for more veteran
Pro Evo fans, you can adjust these to find the perfect combination.
Another new feature is the combination play component which allows you
to create some brilliant team work while playing, especially changing
tactics on the fly. Switching between players is done via the L1 button
with passes done via the circle and x buttons.
Then you have the physics engine and without
putting on a pair of boots, this is as close as us mere mortals will get
in playing international soccer. The players on the field are also
quite realistic and when you see the 22 soccer players on the ground, it
almost looks like you are watching TV itself. With that said, the new
physics engine really adds an element of strategy to the gameplay,
especially how each player handles the soccer ball differently.
This is quite evident with the more
powerful players who
have some great footwork techniques and it's a joy to see them handle
the ball like soccer gods. Defending and attacking also feels smoother,
especially when you have control of the ball and while you are
controlling your player on the field with the left analog stick, it's
easy to feint another direction to confuse your attacker.
Graphics/Audio
As mentioned, this is the best looking PES game to date and although
it's still not as slick as FIFA, it's getting closer each year.
Commentary is a little bit of a mixed bag for PES 2014 and although it's
not fantastic, it's not bad either but it does need to be spiced up a
little. Apart from that, crowd sounds are perfect as are all the soccer
sounds from the field.
Final Thoughts?
PES 2014 really challenges the world of
video game soccer games by implementing revised gaming mechanics and
some impressive use of physics. It's a shame that the game does not have
full licensing rights but if you're a fan of soccer, you really need to
check this game out, especially for its local and online gameplay.
Graphically, it's very impressive thanks to the Fox Engine that goes
hand in hand with the refined gameplay. It's definitely a great time to
be a PES fan! |
