EA Sports has confirmed that they will release “2010 FIFA World Cup” April 27th. Franchises such as “Sensible Soccer”, and “International Superstar Soccer,” are now almost forgotten. This article and accompanying video are meant to be enjoyed and allow you to relive some of the most iconic games in the genre. FIFA 10 is the most advanced football game, although many Pro Evolution Soccer (PES), fans will disagree. There have been many ground-breaking titles, but others are better forgotten.
Italia 90, Ultimate Soccer and Sensible Soccer were just a few of the first titles to capture the passion of football fans around the globe. Italia 90 was the game that got me started, despite some minor glitches like being able score a cross from a box edge every time with ease. However, this was only a small issue in a game that was the beginning of competitive gaming at five years old with my older brother. Brazil and Italy were invariably the top teams when the game was played from a bird’s eye view. Sensible Soccer, in my opinion and that of many others, was the best team on the game. It created a dynasty in gaming and was a favorite amongst friends. Amiga Power charts topped with “Sensi”.
FIFA International Soccer was launched July 1993. It introduced 16-bit era football games. The player could sometimes run from the referee after being given a yellow. However, play would not resume until he spbo live score caught up to him and that would result in a red card. Sensible World of Soccer, released in 1994, was a pioneer in video games. It attempted to incorporate all the professional footballing world into one title. The career modes included both management and player roles. There were many clubs and countries represented in the game. This game was included on the New York Times’ list of the top ten most influential video games.
FIFA 96 was undoubtedly the most significant advancement in the game in the 1990s. Silicon Graphics, which modeled players using MotionDesign animation technology, was the best example of this. The beginnings of modern-day soccer were made possible by new moves such as 1-2 passing, quick dribble, volleys and fakes. Real players were used to play the game. FIFA 97 had very little novelty, aside from an indoor arena. This was something I have been longing for in FIFA 97. FIFA Road to World Cup 98 came next, and set the standard in graphics and gameplay for other football games. However, it wouldn’t be long before EA Sports would resurface at the top of its game as it is today.
International Superstar Soccer 64 (ISS 64), was my favorite football game. The game brought an arcade-like experience to your couch and a competitive streak among your friends. Everyone had to be the best. This game wasn’t about realism. The fact that it didn’t have licenses didn’t matter. David Beckham was called Decham and Alan Shearer Shoarer. None of this was an issue. It was just something to laugh at. It was a great success because of its fluid gameplay and tangible skill. Do you remember the “Z” button for curling?” You could zig-zag from left to right. ISS 98 was soon following and was also highly rated, although there were no official licenses.
This is Football (TIF 2003) was an alternative to FIFA-like gameplay. It had potential but you would be crazy to choose this or its successor TIF 2005. For me, I’d rather play the original PES than either of these. The franchise was abruptly ended.
Pro Evolution Soccer 1,2,3,4,5, or 6 – Take your pick. They were all amazing in their own way. They were a strong continuation of ISS 98’s legacy and controlled the majority the soccer fans for nearly ten years. FIFA was unable to match the fluidity and freedom of the Pro Evolution series, even though almost all licenses were still missing. PES was not perfect, but it did have its flaws. But it is realistic. It was also great because of how the players were in their pre-game condition. The smiley faces indicated what percentage of their potential each player could achieve. This could have an impact on your game. My style was all dribbling and very little passing. This was totally unrealistic as I had to walk it past 10 players, but everyone played their own way. There were many styles of play: some were more patient and tentative, while others were more aggressive and focused, while others played on the break. The great thing about it is that they all worked. Although I might be putting my hand up for the cause, I believe that the PES franchise has generated the most intense competition among friends than any other video game.
FIFA 09 was the most prominent example of EA Sports’ reemergence. This game made many Pro Evo heads turn. PES 6 and 2009 were not good enough, especially when you consider the next-gen opportunities. EA Sports finally managed to create a smooth, enjoyable and sophisticated game. This made it difficult for players to be successful. Konami was another success. PES 2010 was a confirmation of this shift. Yes, there are some improvements, but it has made me feel like I have been turned. 360 dribbling, new skills, formations and licenses. But most importantly, PES lacks the strength of online play.
