Fifa vs. PES

After playing Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 today, I was left bewildered in what game to buy next. Fifa or PES? Well, this head-to-head comparison helped me figure out the best choice. Note that I am not a fanboy of either franchise.

Fifa 08 vs. PES 2008

Presentation – FIFA

While both games have true next-generation graphics, FIFA excels in the life-like look of the players, unlike some from PES, who look nothing like their real-life counterparts.

Sound – Tie

PES’ horrible soundtrack is what it lacks in the sound department. FIFA’s is considerably better, although with the Xbox 360 you always have the option to use your own music. In my mind, PES’ match commentary is better than FIFA’s, that maybe because I live in New Zealand and do not listen to the Sky Sport commentators featured in the FIFA game, whereas regular Barclays English Premier League matches broadcasted in New Zealand are often commentated by Jon Champion.

Online – Fifa

I was unable to test PES 2008’s online capabilities, however I was fortunate enough to try out FIFA’s, and boy, did it rock! With the newly addition of 5v5 on Xbox Live and Playstation Network, FIFA 08 puts many other multiplayer games to shame, being beaten by only some of the greatest shooters in history.

Gameplay- PES

This is one area that PES has always been marginally better than FIFA in, however this year was closer than ever. FIFA has opted for a more realistic, slow game, whereas PES has stuck to quick ball control and speedy players. With the addition of fake dives and quick free-kicks, PES looks certain to dominate for a while.

The winner is… FIFA 08! I will be heading down to Noel Leeming tomorrow to pick it up, however only just did it scrape past PES. Congratulations EA, you have created a successful football title!

Thanks for reading and enjoy your gaming!
-Seb-