EA once again
rewrites the definitive console soccer game in their latest incarnation
of the extremely popular soccer series, Fifa. Featuring more
control, next generation graphics and a variety of new gameplay
features, there's little excuse not to buy this title, even if
you're not a soccer fan.
Features
Jumping straight
down to the graphics, we could not believe just how amazing the
graphics look in this latest incarnation of Fifa, especially on a HD
TV which is almost a must to really appreciate the title.
The camera
angles are also a first class experience and in a
normal match, with the camera in its default position, the game
looks stunning and would fool non-gamers into thinking they are
actually watching a real-life football match.
The game is perhaps
the closest the industry has ever got to achieving a photo realistic
virtual game of football. The player animations are also amazing,
whether it's the player shielding the ball or even the way their
faces react to the gameplay, one cannot help but be impressed from
start to finish in Fifa 08.
The commentary of
Fifa 08 has also been professionally implemented as are the varied
and diverse sound effects that the gamer will be treated it. Of
course, the title also contains the stock standard EA Sports music
which will really draw you into the spirit of soccer and we're
talking about real soccer here... not the women's FIFA soccer *grin*
Gameplay has also
received a new facelift with the implementation of the new manual mode of control, which is
basically playing the game without any assists not only for passing
and shooting but also for through balls and crosses. Fortunately the
title also contains an assist mode which will allow for newbie
gamers to finally kick those winning goals.
The
over-the-shoulder perspective of this mode shows off another of the
big new features in FIFA 08, the trick system. By pulling on the
left trigger and using the analog sticks, you can perform a variety
of moves that, with enough practice, have the power to cut swathes
through the opposition.
Simple step-overs
and flicks can be executed by flicking the right stick in one
direction, while more complicated moves can be orchestrated with a
series of movements.
The new Be a Pro
mode is the most dramatic addition. Here play switches to a single
player rather than a whole team which offers an experience not a
million miles away from Namco's Libero Grand. Surprisingly it works
and works very well indeed.
The well thought out
camera is perhaps the biggest contributor to the mode's success,
where a Gears of War style roadie run provides extra excitement when
closing down on the goal, yet the view opens up for times when
defence is on your mind.
The Multiplayer aspect of the title
allows for interactive leagues which let you take control of your
favourite team and play real-life fixtures as they happen, or you
can jump into custom leagues that have been set up for up to 31
other players.
In conclusion, EA
have pulled off some big risks with this title in terms of revamped
and redefined gameplay but fortunately for this gaming giant, they
have successfully pulled off another amazing Fifa title. It's time
to start kicking GOAAAALS!!!
