PES 2014

PES 2014 is a soccer simulation game similar to FIFA, and this version features updated animations, better graphics, and a superb atmosphere. While different aspects of the game are loading, the screen will populate with suggestions for optimizing your gameplay.

There haven't been many changes to the controls for this version, but the analog stick has been improved for better ball control through a full 360 degrees. One of the most exciting aspects of the new graphics engine is the improved physics for the ball.

Tackles have been redesigned for a smoother, natural feel that looks much more realistic. When two players impact or go shoulder to shoulder, the outcome is determined by the strength, weight, and power of the characters.

This version is paced a bit slower, but that is ideal for team play. It's no where near as easy to steal as it was in the older versions of the game, and you'll actually have to use timing and strategy to force errors so you can strike.

One of the biggest complaints about the past versions of PES is that players sometimes change direction abruptly for no reason at all. For PES 2014, that is no longer an issue. Shots are more realistic, and crossing the ball requires much more manual control in this version.

In PES 2014, the AI system has been significantly upgraded. CPU-controlled players move exceptionally well, and they are harder to predict. They can easily switch back and forth between solo strikes and complex team plays, and they'll take some spectacular shots. You can alter the strength of the AI through six different levels of intensity.

This version of PES takes advantage of a graphics engine called the Fox Engine. This new tool helps the game take more details into account, and it boosts the quality of the character resemblances. The engine is far from perfect, and it has sporadic issues with dropping the frame, but that is a negligible problem. Strangely, this version doesn't allow you to alter the weather with either snow or rain.

PES 2014 also lost some features that many have been wanting gone for some time. The old 'binary' player framework system forced the characters to follow preset frames of action, but that isn't the case for this version. Each player acts independently for the ultimate flexibility.

Thanks to the impressive sound effects, the game has an immersive feel that will make you think you're really in the middle of a packed soccer stadium. The crowd reacts to just about every little detail of the action.

While this game still has a way to go to beat FIFA, it still offers a unique and engaging style of play that's fun, addictive, and surprisingly in-depth for such a game.

PES 2014 reinvented the series with improved physics, AI, and graphics

While FIFA has long been the top dog of football franchises, Pro Evolution Soccer reinvented itself with a new game engine for the launch of PES 2014, bringing more realistic and more enjoyable gameplay. The new series is a genuine competitor for FIFA, although there are still a few problems that mar the experience a little. For the true football fan though, it offers a combination of realism and excitement, as well as enough depth that is needed to ensure long-term gaming.

Display

One flaw with Pro Evolution Soccer games has always been that the menu and navigation system is not as efficient or comfortable as that of FIFA, and despite the fact that menus now look good and are intuitive, there are still problems. If you are playing using a controller, then the mouse cursor system will hold you back. However, Konami has put effort into trying to ensure that you enjoy a genuine experience. Matches are framed by appropriate footage and genuine content related to the licensed events.

There are a few niggles but nothing that should hold you back too far.

Graphics

One area where PES 2014 has really started to excel is in its graphics. Stadiums look incredible, some of the players have an almost disturbing likeness, and some of the new physical twists mean that movement of the ball, the players, and even the referee and the crowds are much more realistic and, therefore, a lot more enjoyable. As with any football game, there are still moments of infuriating inaccuracy, but they are far fewer than ever before.

The game looks great, and PES 2014 definitely benefits from the implementation of the new game engine.

Gameplay

Konami has attempted to take a more realistic approach to football. Players are encouraged to get their teammates working together, and there is much greater onus on the physical aspect of football. This is to the game’s benefit, but again it isn’t without its faults. Even when you appear to be clean through on goal, you may find your player being pulled back to become involved in a physical tug of war with opponents, and it can prevent you from passing and shooting.

Tackling is virtually non-existent now, with a containing defence being the preferred option, which many consider to be a shame because there can be as much joy from a well-timed sliding tackle as from a well-placed goal.

New Engine

The new engine has helped ensure that the game looks and plays even better than its franchise predecessors. It also brings new elements to the gameplay that haven’t been seen in previous versions. TrueBall Tech improves the movement of the ball, as well as the movement of the players, while MASS is the new system that determines bodyweight placement and applies this to your attempts to make killer moves.

The new engine is a definite improvement, but some of the great improvements do come at a cost of some slight niggles. Overall, though, the improvements are certainly worth the inclusion of the new technology.

Depth And Game Types

It is difficult to talk about any football game without comparing it to FIFA, and while FIFA games offer massive depth, this is one area where PES could still do with some improvements. There are a few official leagues and tournaments, but nowhere near the amount in FIFA.

What’s more, while FIFA’s Ultimate Team game type has become the preferred game type for many players, Master League hasn’t really seen any improvements and changes for a number of years.

The lack of depth in competitions and the much needed (but missing) expansion of the Master League feature are a shame, but the game does still offer a decent amount of depth so that you will want to play it at least until the launch of the next title in the series.

Overall

Overall, PES 2014 lacks in some areas, but it is still an excellent game and once you learn to ignore the few foibles, you will benefit by enjoying access to a smart, slick, good-looking, football game that has enough depth to keep you busy for months.

Further improvements are likely as Konami becomes more accustomed to the new game engine, and hopefully they will look to expand on the Master League game type, include some additional league and tournament licences, and throw in some extra game types. However, until then, PES 2014 remains more than capable and will allow players to enjoy some truly magical footballing moments.

Play as one of your favorite teams in the soccer league with PES 2014.

This is a game with stunning graphics, realistic sounds and a gameplay that would make anyone want to find the nearest soccer stadium. All of the animations have been improved as well as the team involvement. This makes it feel like you are playing together instead of as only one person.

When the game begins, you will select the team that you want to play with. Uniforms can be customized to a point, choosing the areas of the uniform that you want to be a color of the team. You will also select some of the plays that you want to use in the game. When you go out onto the field, you are greeted with music and the cheers of the crowd.

You can play against the computer or against others who are online. A fun option is to create your own team. There are players available from leagues across the world, and you can choose your coaching staff. Another option is to play in a career. You will select a single player to take through a season. The payer can be a goalkeeper or one who is simply a part of the team. Direct his movements on the field in the hopes of becoming the best player in the league. You can take part in a competition where you are playing on either the English or the German side. The competition also includes a Champions League and a Europe League. This can take a little longer to complete as there are sometimes gaps in the games that are played. Overall, PES 2014 is an amazing game with a lot of action and realism.