Step in the right direction (Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 (PS3))

Member Name: tommytankengine

Product:	Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 (PS3)
Date:	28/06/09 (6 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Master League, quick responsive feel

Disadvantages: Online

I found this year's Pro Evolution Soccer to be a large improvement over last year's effort. The introduction of the new Become a Legend and Champions League mode definitely add more longevity to the game. Also added has been downloadable updates, which have added new licences, kits, and players to the squads of the teams.

The re-introduction of an almost complete edit mode also makes up for the loss of some of the Spanish team's licences, meaning you can still replicate the real teams.

Unfortunately online really lets this game down. The lobbies don't feel particularly welcoming, and it can sometimes take ages to find a match room which is actually free. Add to that massive lag issues which can sometimes make the game almost unplayable. The whole gameplay seems to change online, players become a lot less responsive and passing and finishing seem to become more wayward. It also becomes very repetitive with most opposition choosing either Barcelona or Manchester United due to the ease with which Messi and Ronaldo can run through your entire team. All of these factors make online the least enjoyable of the PES2009 game modes.

When playing offline with friends however this game is the best football game on the market. Its quick response and pacey arcade feel enable some truly beautiful goals to be scored.

Overall if you are an offline gamer this is still the best, but not without its problems, and is a massive step forward for Konami.

Summary: Good Game