Table of Contents Show
There’s been quite a lot of talk about how Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) franchise is directly challenging EA’s FIFA juggernaut. Some are even saying that this latest release from Konami, PES 13, isn’t simply a contender, but that it is an equal. Sure, this sounds like absolute blasphemy on its face, but there is actually some truth in this type of claim.
Having said this however, it is somewhat unfair to even compare the two games (FIFA 13 & PES 13) as they are two entirely different beasts. For starters, FIFA presents what could be considered more abrupt action while PES seems to be more detail-oriented and perhaps a bit more deliberate in its approach to action. Regardless, PES 13 is a dramatic improvement over all previous editions and is certainly one of the best football games ever created.
Visuals
Realism is the order of the day as far as PES 13’s graphics are concerned. Everything looks much better this time around; character models, faces, environments, etcâ¦nearly everywhere you look there’s much greater detail. The animations are particularly good as well. Will hardcore FIFA fans be just as impressed with Konami’s take on their favorite sport? Probably not, but that doesn’t mean that this isn’t an absolutely gorgeous game worth delving into.
Gameplay
Perhaps the greatest improvements in PES 13 have been made in the gameplay department. The on-screen action simply feels much more realistic than ever before, nearly everything has been overhauled; including shooting, passing and character movements.
How successful you are on the field is going to be largely dependent on your ability to execute skill moves (which are somewhat tough to master, but ultimately worth it). If you’re the kind of gamer who likes more of a challenge, PES 13 is probably for you.
Verdict
While it’s not quite as polished as FIFA 13, and you might have to deal with a steeper learning curve than you might be used to, PES 13 is an absolutely great game. Rather than attempt to copy EA’s formula, Konami has created their approach to the sport. Those that can appreciate a more skill-oriented approach to gaming will likely become addicted to PES 13, perhaps even opting to stick with it on a long-term basis (in lieu of the FIFA franchise).
Don’t expect to see officially licensed logos emblazoned everywhere though, Konami still has yet to overcome that particular barrier. Despite the glaring fact that teams might come off as somewhat ‘nonspecific’at times, the action, gameplay and overall appeal of the game is rock solid and extremely satisfying; and isn’t that what really matters?
