Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 review for the PC

Pro Evolution Soccer is back with its annual update, and this year you'll really see the difference. With tweaked gameplay that makes it more accessible and appealing to both the hardcore and more casual footie gamers alike, PES 2008 is a newly streamlined affair that almost certainly knocks arch rival FIFA to the title this year. We like it so much we've given it our coveted PCGZine Gold Award - find out what makes PES 2008 so good in our in-depth review.
Click here to read the full Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 review for the PC now!

Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 review for the PC
That the greatest football game series of all time should come from Japan must be a cause of consternation to European developers, particularly as its closest rival is made in Canada. While it's easy to be swayed by the all-pervasive FIFA, after kicking off and knocking a few passes around in PES 2008, it's obvious which is superior. FIFA 08 is an all-singing, all-dancing, officially licensed multimedia extravaganza, but in terms of pure gameplay, PES 2008 plays it off the park.

Traditionally, PES has had a reputation as the more hardcore game, with FIFA catering to the more casual market. The goalposts have shifted a little this season though, and Konami has chopped off a lot of fat, making this year's model a more streamlined arcade-like affair. Goals are easier to come by than last year, although that's no guarantee of victory, as the opposition mercilessly punish mistakes.