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RATING: (weak) 1 2 3 4 5 (awesome)
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IN BRIEF
Pros: Excellent graphics; players move more realistically. Cons: Doesn't offer true soccer strategies. In a nutshell: Not quite soccer simulation, but getting closer. Multiplayer: Up to 2 players on modem, network, and serial play. *ESRB rating: E (Everyone) |
FACTS
Game Title: FIFA 2001 Platform: PC Developer: EA Sports Publisher: EA Sports Accessories supported: Keyboard, various gamepads Price: $34.99 |
THE REVIEW by Tom Oberheide for Gamers Today
In FIFA 2001 you can be the soccer star of your dreams - whether that be the player, manager or coach. The bonus this year, you look and react more lifelike.
The game's options (characters, settings and actions) are prolific. Choose from 16 worldwide soccer leagues, five stadiums, various weather conditions, time of kickoff (AM or PM), and type of game (exhibition, full season, World Cup, or go for the EFA trophy). You can trade, buy or sell players. The list goes on and will be familiar if you've played earlier versions of the game. Once you've tweaked your team to your satisfaction, you're ready to lace up.
If you're a novice, you'll appreciate the passing accuracy -- every time the ball is kicked with just the right amount of oomph, it'll reach the intended receiver. But, as you get better and want to "lead" your players with a pass, you'll discover one of the ways the game is limited.
Players can execute a couple of realistic moves, like hurdling over a slide tackle or spinning 360 degrees around an opponent. Of course, the computer's side makes these moves perfectly every time, whereas you'll need to practice a lot to get it right.
The British commentary gets wearisome quickly. Switching the audio mode to "pitch" and listening to sideline comments is easier to endure. Music by Moby, Utah Saints, and Grand Theft Audio, to name a few, adds a pumped-up excitement to the game.
The game's saving grace is its visuals. You can see the players' facial contortions when they're penalized, and the goalies look ready to kill when the ball gets pass them. You can even see the security guards near the bleachers, but you won't see them throwing any fans out -- maybe next year.
EA Sports doesn't offer a soccer game that simulates the real thing. But, if you love soccer and don't have the time or resources to lace up your cleats, FIFA 2001 will probably appease your hankering.
*For a complete explanation of ESRB ratings, check out the official ESRB Web site.
