By Nick Neofitidis
My brother Dan and I have played over 300+ games of "FIFA 2009" so I was pretty eager to start testing "FIFA 10" so that I could get the edge on my flesh and blood. Here are some of the major points that seem to have been improved this time around, as well as some elements that could use a bit more polish.
What It's Doing Right
New Dribbling Control
EA has clearly made some big improvements, especially with the ball handling. New 360 degree dribbling and skilled dribbling helps get everything even closer to the real thing. Players can more easily find space between defenders to squeeze through, have great responsive abilities to lateral and one-on-one challenges, as well as great turning movements. There is also a great new feature that allows those top notch players to perform a "skilled dribbling" move to spook even the toughest back line.
Smarter Game
On defense you can see that players have gotten better at pressing the ball, anticipating and blocking shots, as well as counter attacking on offense. Offensively you will find yourself less offside because "FIFA 10" has improved the through-runs and balls players give and receive. They also added this great feature that lets you quickly drop the ball and play during a free kick or foul situation. A great small adjustment that keeps the game moving and the goals coming.
The Details
"FIFA 10" has also added a few key features that help with game play: The option to change your kick taker without having to go back out to the game menu is key. Now during the game you can simply hold your RB/R1 button and switch to any active player on the field. Clutch when you want specialists like Ronaldinho and Beckham to bend one in from 20 yards out. Also set pieces have become completely customizable. You can set, move and adjust all 11 guys beforehand to set up the perfect late, game winning, set piece.
What It's Doing Wrong
One Player Arena
The arena pops up whenever the game loads should really be a two-player affair. So, instead of just watching player one take some shots, throw in a defender or let me be the keeper. I'm over my brother yelling at me, "What corner you want it in?" I don’t care bro...whichever one you want.
Final Impressions
I love what I'm seeing. EA made some very key and important game play changes that keep the game moving and exciting all the way through. Best of all, just like all older versions of "FIFA," whether you’re an enthusiast or just a casual fan in the virtual world, it doesn’t take much to learn or play "FIFA 10." Ask Russ, guy beat me 1-0 and hasn’t played in nearly 2 years! Oh well…back to my apartment for more practice.