Xbox 360/PS3; �49.99; cert 3+; Konami
Once the undisputed king of football games, the Pro Evolution Soccer series has floundered in recent years. Last year's edition was comprehensibly beaten ? both critically and commercially ? by Fifa 2010, and clearly things had to change.
PES 2011 is a major reinvention for the series and one that some longer-term players may struggle to deal with ? at least initially. The most obvious change is the pace of the game. Where once PES was fluid, fast and frantic it now plays at a more realistically sedate Fifa-speed. Perhaps realising the impact of this change, the developers have reintroduced an adjustable speed option. If the default level is to slow you can adjust it to a more frenzied ? or comatose ? pace depending on your mood.
The main change on the pitch is the passing, which is now a lot more realistic. Actually it's just harder. Forget lazy stabs of the through ball ? you now really need to direct the ball to the player. Over time you begin to appreciate the freedom this offers and you can really vary the power and direction of the ball. The pinging build ups of old are now much harder to pull off but conversely much more satisfying when you do. Unfortunately, some occasionally erratic player AI (artificial intelligence) is a problem. Occasionally an opposing defender will be gripped by indecision, allowing you to waltz past ? especially if you are on the wing. Likewise, the keepers flap far too often with many goals scored off parries.
The better news is that the game looks fantastic. Player likenesses ? always a PES strongpoint ? are better than ever. The action feels more physical too with plenty of jostling for possession. Sadly the commentary is as unintentionally laughable as ever.
Off the pitch, the Master League has been expanded and taken online. The ability to bid against other players in an online transfer market adds a lively thrill to an already epic gameplay mode. More generally there is much better access to tactics and strategy, with players able to manipulate their team's position and lineups to an almost Football Manager-style degree.
Despite the issues, PES 2011 feels like the start of something new. It isn't perfect and veterans may find themselves upping the speed and reminiscing about mazy runs up the middle of the park. But give it time and PES 2011 offers a rewarding and enjoyable game that probably needs another year or two to reach full potential.
? Game reviewed on Xbox 360
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