Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 3D Review

Pro Evolution Soccer has always been known for its realism where FIFA was traditionally friendlier for non-soccer fans. Things have changed a bit as EA has greatly increased the quality of its FIFA titles by focusing on core gameplay mechanics, challenging Pro Evolution Soccer on its home turf. Can Konami take the pressure?

First off, the main gameplay is still intact, minus any online play or extraneous game modes. It has a career mode and an exhibition mode where you can just jump in to play. This is a bare bones soccer title and to an extent, that is a good thing. This is a portable title and it certainly feels like one with the limited options. That said, you still have a number of options to choose from before a match starts, including your team (literally dozens to choose from) and roster.

If you have ever played a soccer game on the Nintendo DS, or any sports game for that matter, you will be relieved to see that the 3DS offering is a substantial improvement in terms of visuals. While it is not on par with current console versions, it exceeds the PSP in visual clarity and could probably be compared to a crisp PS2 title if it were in 3D. The 3D effect is subtle and does not get in the way of gameplay. The game looks even more impressive with the default up-close camera.

Pro Evolution Soccer is a game that is all about tactics. While I enjoy soccer games, I am by no means a soccer expert. Still, I have learned through video games that you cannot just rush the goal with one player from across the field and expect to score. It takes a lot of passing between players and thankfully the 3DS analog stick is more than capable of providing natural controls. Keep in mind that the computer is skilled, so expect low scoring games unless you put it on easy.

Konami released a fine port of Pro Evolution Soccer for the 3DS, showing off what Nintendo’s new handheld is capable of in terms of its visuals and controls. While this is not up to current console quality, it certainly helps Pro Evolution that no other soccer game is currently available on the Nintendo 3DS. For that reason alone it will be a sought after title, at least outside of the U.S. where soccer is more popular.