The First Fully 3D Football Game (Actua Soccer (PS))

Member Name: JJJJ

Product:	Actua Soccer (PS)
Date:	20/11/08 (93 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Ahead of its time

Disadvantages: Poor A.I

As a massive fan of football based videogames, i've had them all over the years - from 'FIFA' and 'PES' right through to the older classics like 'Goal', 'MatchDay' and 'Sensible Soccer'.

The first Playstation football title which I owned was the excellent 'Adidas Power Soccer', and I thought it was the ultimate gaming experience - that is until 'Actua Soccer' came along.

Released in 1995 and developed by Gremlin Interactive, the title had the impressive claim of being the first football game to use full 3D graphics. It certainly looked impressive with motion-captured players (although the technology was limited at the time) and stadiums which felt more realistic than we had seen in previous footie incarnations.

Whilst playing, the in-game camera remained extremely close to the action, and although this helped showcase the graphical genius of the game, it also meant that making long range passes was difficult - due to not being able see the far away players.

The pace of play was frenetic, and the ball physics were good for the time, but the AI of the computer players - goalkeepers especially, was pretty awful.

Actua Soccer was certainly ahead of its time, certainly in terms of its graphics, but also due to its overall feel. The sequel, 'Actua Soccer 2' ironed out many of the weaknesses found in the first game and represents a more pleasing experience in terms of gameplay. However, in my opinion, Actua Soccer marked a turning point in the development of football video games, and after its release, many other titles 'borrowed' specific elements from the game to benefit their own. A revolutionary game.

Summary: Great Soccer Game