FIFA 2017 again plays second fiddle to PES 2017's excellent gameplay, though the latter's live commentary system leaves much to be desired
Konami has improved a game that seemingly didn't have much to improve in the first place. Though the changes aren't many, it definitely makes the game better than last year's Pro Evolution Soccer. But does this warrant a new purchase?
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The game has made several improvements. For one, the player AI is a lot better and this applies to the opponent as well. The AI seems to adapt to your gameplay and passing seems easier (including long passes, which are near impossible to execute in FIFA). At the same time, opponents have gotten a little tougher, but it is within reason and keeps the player on his toes.
The goalkeeper is also smarter and can defend well. On the flip side, it is harder to score a goal with an AI opponent. Player animations and licensed players have also been improved. With a decent enough graphic card you can really savour the look of the game. Each game on the field is unique, fun and infinitely re-playable.
Where gameplay is concerned, the 2016 edition had already beaten FIFA and remains better than the current version of its closest competitor. The improved player animations have just made it a joy to play.
The manager mode, or Master Le-ague, is still one of the best you will ever play. It's perfect for players who want to plan the tactical bit rather than play the on-field game.
MyClub, where you build your own perfect football club, is also a lot of fun. The mode features many rewards and you can negotiate transfers, sign on new stars and select a great club manager. There are micro-transactions in this mode, but they are not in your face, as you can achieve your goals by just grinding a little.
PES 2017 isn't perfect though. It is still bogged down by licensing issues, since FIFA has better tie-ups. This, however, is easily remedied by the over enthusiastic PES community that fills every hole with free-to-download kits, clubs and badges.
What can't be fixed by the community though is the commentary — it is just too repetitive. We hope in next year's version, Konami considers improving it with more phrases. It is very jarring when the commentators keep repeating the same lines again. It is best to turn off the commentary, but it does take away from the experience.
Maybe, PES needs to learn a thing or two from last week's NBA 2k17 release, that is truly how you create the atmosphere you experience at a stadium. It is true that football fields are larger, but that just means there is so much more you can do.
There are a lot of good tweaks in PES 2017, and if you are a fan of football sims, you need to get this.
Pro Evolution Soccer 2017
Rating: 4/5
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platform:
PC, PS3, X360, PS4, XBO
Price: PC: Rs 999; PS3/X360: Rs 2,499; PS4\XBO: Rs 2,999
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qgFj4roRRY
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