So Which Football Sim Is Best?
FIFA vs. PES at E3
Toppling EA’s grip on the football-sim throne is no easy task, and despite making some notable improvements that have produced a really entertaining package, PES 2019 still isn’t achieving that goal. But that wasn’t really ever in doubt. If you’re wondering whether PES 2019 actually constitutes a viable alternative to FIFA, it certainly does. Those hankering for a change of pace from FIFA will find a well rounded and exceptionally fun football-sim in PES 2019. The series has always boasted great gameplay, and that remains a key takeaway, but the little details and graphical nuances Konami is adding is starting to approach FIFA-levels of quality and immersion – it just still isn’t quite at the same level of presentation.
The killer for most users will be the lack of authentic leagues in comparison to FIFA. It’s great to see the efforts of Konami in forming new partnerships with lesser leagues, but the void of some big teams and various leagues is always going to be a put-off for new players. In the battleground between FIFA and PES, those without a single football game in their collection are likely better off with a package that features the greatest number of teams and leagues. FIFA won’t ever be beaten in that regard.
Yet for those with previous editions of FIFA, are you really missing out that much by trying something new? FIFA’s changes have been small and incremental even in its most major updates, and 19 is no different. The big new function for me was the ability to change tactics on the fly, and honing the new shooting mechanic gives it a point of difference from before. But is that really enough to justify the purchase? I’d almost be more inclined to start from scratch with something new. That said, those invested in FIFA Ultimate Team and The Journey won’t share the same sentiment – particularly so if EA introduces the sort of changes that fans have been asking for in FUT.
Perhaps if you’re wondering whether PES is for you, hop into the upcoming demo (info to be released July 21) and see if the gameplay jibes with your style. As for FIFA, anyone familiar with FIFA over the past three years already knows exactly how 19 plays.
