PES 2010 - New Features

The announcement of PES 2010 has caused a mini Mexican wave around the office. Konami have promised loads of new features, including a revamped Master League, reworked animation system and a new Europa League mode. And we've broken down the whole press release and looked at how each of the new features will hopefully improve our lunchtime game of choice.

GAMEPLAY

Konami says: ‘In addition to key out-field elements, goalkeepers are more versatile and with abilities matching those of modern shot-stoppers.’
What it probably means: Keepers might actually save a couple of shots now, instead of palming every daisy cutter into their own nets.

GRAPHICS

Konami says: ‘… live player expressions to be depicted with an improved lighting system which differentiates between various conditions! Stadium detail is also massively improved, with the grass and other in-stadium elements finely depicted.’
What it probably means: You what? We were confused about this, but, after chatting to Konami, they inform us that players reactions will now change depending on their actions - i.e. they'll react angrily to fouls, losing possession or when they miscontrol the ball. Oh, and the grass will look a bit greener.

PLAYERS

Konami says: ‘Each player enjoys unique AI tied into their best abilities, and is reflected in the actions of their team mates - i.e. if a player who is known to be a good crosser of the ball is in possession, more players will flood the penalty area to receive it.’
What it probably means: Players will actually run into space on their own, without us having to crowbar them into position by using one-twos.

MASTER LEAGUE

Konami says: ‘The Master League elements in PES 2010 have been bolstered by far-ranging and vital new additions, dedicated to enriching the mode.’
What it probably means: It'll be easier to sign players. Menus will be a different colour.
ANIMATION

Konami says: ‘More individual skills are also on show, including new flicks and tricks that have a definite showing on the way a game flows... while there is a noticeable change in pace when a player passes a ball from a standing position than from within a run.’
What it probably means: There’ll be a couple of new tricks, but we’ll still only use the fake shot.

STRATEGY

Konami says: ‘A new power gauge system allows users to balance their strategy in a quick, but wide-ranging way before a match. Every element - pass frequency, movement, the line of defence, width of play, or the position of the front line - can be altered to match those of a favoured club.’
What it probably means: We’ll be able to tinker around with the dots in the formation menu a bit more.

AI

Konami says: ‘The Tokyo team has worked to improve the AI of the game, with Teamvision 2.0 implemented. Midfielders and defenders now work together to cover open space and close down attacks, meaning that cover can be provided for lower-ranked defenders.
What it probably means: A.I. players might actually do what we tell them to, instead of scything the opposition down in the box when we clearly haven’t pressed tackle.

ATMOSPHERE

Konami says: ‘…the crowd will react spontaneously to specific situations in a game, showing their disdain or pleasure as fouls are committed and goals scored. Likewise, the commentary has been altered to offer a fresher, more concise overview of the game.’
What it probably means: The crowd will boo when we get fouled and cheer a bit louder when we pass the ball about. And John Champion might actually talk about the game, rather than how many Lancashire hotpots Mark Lawrenson’s scoffed.

PENALTIES

Konami says: ‘An all-new system has been implemented, offering greater control, placing and accuracy.’
What it probably means: There’ll finally be a power bar for pens.

ONLINE

Konami says: ‘A new dedicated section of the Tokyo team is committed to improving the online side of PES 2010. More downloadable content is also planned.’
What it probably means: They’ve shifted a couple of staffers into a new team to make online not shit.

LICENSES

Konami says: ‘Konami has strengthened its relationship with UEFA and can announce it has secured the exclusive video game rights for the Europa League Licence.’
What it probably means: There’ll be a UEFA Cup mode, which we’ll never play because we’ve still got the Champions League one.