2nd penalty - value for money
As the second kick taker lines up we look at what each game has to offer. FIFA has a multitude of things to do, along with its now tweaked and fully operational Be a Pro mode. This hasn’t stopped the opposition bringing in something they’ve had in the Japanese versions of Pro Evolution Soccer for a few years, their Become a Legend. The differences between the two are minimal, although Konami’s effort feels a little more simplified, with 4 players able to play in this mode compared to EA’s 10. This said, the Champions League inclusion really does make a difference, as it adds another feather to the cap that is the Master League, which FIFA has never really managed to equal or beat. All in all, it’s pretty tight in this department, with both games offering good shouts at long term enjoyment, but in different ways. PES still trails by one, but their captain’s got them on the score sheet.
PES 09 - X0
FIFA 09 - 00
3rd penalty - sound
There has never really been a big contest with regards to the audio capabilities between these two and, as much as I hate to sound repetitive, it’s the same again this time round. Considering what the commentary used to be like for Pro Evolution you have to say it’s a huge leap forward in terms of where they were, but it still feels a bit on the read it off a card side. Jon Champion sounds fine, but then you get to Mr. Wood himself, Mark Lawrenson and you just feel your life slowly ebbing away and wonder what he did to wrestle the real analyst to the floor and tie him up so that he could live his fantasy of talking about a game on TV. FIFA’s commentary is professional and to the point, as well as regular snippets of trivia to liven up the chatter. The crowds are better in EA’s effort too, with a feeling of being in the stadium helped by numerous chants that don’t feel out of place. PES has its really good ambience, but the crowds just continually repeat the same things over and over again and can strain on even the most patient of people. FIFA’s star player has chipped it over the keeper while the PES substitute has hit the crossbar and made it a bit ominous for the team.
PES 09 - X0X
FIFA 09 - 000
