Pro Evolution Soccer 2018

Ah yes, the rival of the most prominent soccer franchise has returned. Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 seeks to dethrone one of the games most synonymous with the sport - or at least challenge it! With each release, Konami's franchise seems to get better and better, earning an increasing amount of accolades and soccer enthusiasts acclaim.

However, it's always the branding of the game where it seems to fall short. People are just too inclined with the games they know. That doesn't stop Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 from taking a drive towards glory, though. Maybe this year's edition will be the one to finally take a swipe at the soccer game overlord? Let's play a few games and find out.

Evolution Defined

There is a sizeable cult following for the Pro Evolution Soccer franchise. It argues the game has been better than its counterpart series FIFA for years. Honestly, these fans may have a point. Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 is a soccer game that looks great and feels really good to play. There's a hefty dose of player dedication that makes gameplay little more fluid, and that's quite refreshing.

Perhaps Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 has a point to prove against the colossal title FIFA 18. Considering it doesn't have the backing of the governing soccer bodies, though - it's always going to struggle a bit. Alas, Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 features all the player intelligence, fluidity, and visual prowess of the previous titles. But is there anything revolutionary to get it noticed?

Although Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 is a remarkable football experience, that's one thing this series seems to lack - and that's ironically the evolution. Each title makes tweaks, refinements, and cosmetic additions to gameplay. However, it feels like there's a conscious decision to avoid innovation. That's maybe what prevents the franchise from taking a stab at FIFA.

Alas, Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 is an accessible, entertaining soccer experience for anyone that picks it up. This year's highlights include new clubs obtained by licenses, many minor adjustments, and all-around satisfying mechanics. Not much change was needed from the previous edition, but it's definitely not a letdown. PES2018 feels damn good.

It's Got Some Balls

In this year's plethora of soccer releases, it would feel that the tortoise won the race against the year. Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 is inherently better than FIFA 2018, feels and looking better in nearly every aspect of gameplay. The overall gist is that enough tinkering has brought this game into a state of bliss, surpassing its counterpart after years of dragging behind.

Pros:

• A complete, immersive soccer experience
• Fluidity in matches feels excellent
• Visuals bring a more realistic feel to the gameplay

Cons:

• It won't match the reputation of the FIFA franchise
• Licensing issues don't make every team available for play