FIFA 09 is the most realistic and enjoyable soccer game on the market.FIFA 09
Xbox 360, PS3
Rating 10/10
THERE was a time when EA’s FIFA games ruled the world.
In 1994, the very first FIFA title revolutionised soccer video games with an isometric view, exceptional ball control and brilliant presentation.
Then, FIFA made the jump to the third dimensionand things were sweet until about 2000 when gameplay started to take second place to the visuals.
Gameplay felt unrealistic and uncomfortable.
It has taken EA Sports about nine years to resuscitate FIFA but in the 2009 iteration, we can proudly say that soccer’s missing son has returned – with a vengeance.
Realistic visuals, authentic sounds, fully licensed teams and players including Australia’s Hyundai A-League, profound online play options, and fluent, open gameplay make up for all of the series’ failings in the past.
Those with an Internet connection can use the Adidas Live option to choose a league and have it linked to real world player performance, injuries and trades, enabling you to play through the season as if you were truly involved.
The Arena makes a welcome return and allowing you to practise while you wait for a match.
The crowd now shows excitement when players break down the wings or through the centre, or they chant when the play is boring.
The controls have been refined so that the players and ball feel like separate entities at all times.
Be a Pro mode returns and you can now create a player and play with them through multiple seasons.
You’ll now be open to trades, have to represent your national team, vie for captaincy at your club, and work at all times on improving your skills.
The most impressive feature is the ability to take Be a Pro online and play with up to nine other players in a team, each with their own role.
If you want to play this mode with friends, you can create a club, give it a name, team colours, and meet in a ‘dressing room’ before the game to discuss tactics and select a squad.
FIFA 09 is a soccer fan’s dream and we highly recommend it.
