Although the perception that sports based simulators are generally rehashed versions of their predecessors exist within the gaming community, titles such as Pro Evolution Soccer and FIFA have undeniably taken great strides forward in their periodic franchise refreshes.
FIFA 10, EA Sport’s most recent addition to its age old soccer franchise, is no different. The game features a number of significant improvements which have placed it firmly on the pinnacle of simulated sports titles.
This however may never be recognised by the gaming market as a whole because the changes that have been made are subtle and virtually unnoticeable to anyone who isn’t well versed in the FIFA legacy.
EA Sports has punted 360 degree dribbling as the most vital addition to the game, and we tend to agree. Players are now free from the once cumbersome eight point axis that previously condemned them to unnatural and frustrating dribbling movements. FIFA 10 offers the player a more malleable and dexterous way in which to move team member around the field, confront opponents and make tackles. This has provided for vastly improved game physics and a more realistic sense of gameplay.
The physical interactions on the field have also been improved. Players give off a greater sense of urgency and tension when chasing down the ball or trying to make a tackle. This is a welcome change from the stoic, lifeless characters found in the football simulators of yesteryear.
Players position themselves more realistically, relate to each other more physically and curve their runs to stay onside, all of which will leave the player feeling more at the stadium than on a living room couch.
Player and team interactions have also been highlighted to a greater extent. The differences in skill between a lowly defender and Didier Drogba have become even more noticeable, encouraging gamers to highlight and utilise the match winners on their team. The prowess of and legacy of the relevant teams as well as fitness levels towards the end of a match can also have a significant effect on the outcome of a game.
The revamped Manager Mode, which allows players to choose a team and see it through a league while performing transfers, looking after players, allocating budgets and choosing sponsors adds an interesting element to the game. Although it is a nice feature; advanced options such as team kit numbers and a set piece generator will generally be better enjoyed by more serious soccer fans.
‘Virtual Pro’ is a new addition to the game and allows the player to choose and nurture a player throughout his career. Once again, this is a feature which is sure to add a welcome level of depth for the more dedicated soccer lovers.
Both the Manager and Virtual Pro modes add a great element of longevity to the game. A football simulator is by its very nature a repetitive entity. EA Sports has gone some way to ensure that the player gets value for money when they purchase FIFA 10 by adding this great features.
In terms of visuals the player and ball physics have improved tremendously. Any new FIFA title is bound to yield a difference in the visual department; FIFA 10 however goes the extra mile particularly with regards to individual player dynamics.
The way in which the ball travels has also seen some improvement, specifically in the goal kick department. Cross field passes curve accordingly and require realistic control from the receiver before play can resume.
The sound in FIFA 10 is as to be expected. Roaring crowds with predictable, yet entertaining commentary from several well known figures add a vital element without having to introduce anything new.
In conclusion FIFA 10 sees a vast improvement in the overall dynamics of football simulators and pulls the franchise some way ahead of its nearest competitor – Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer. Although the changes are often subtle, they are welcome and will undoubtedly make a world of difference to serious soccer fans and casual gamers alike.
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Reviewed on Xbox 360
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