You can probably guess how this review will go, as it’s pretty much the same for every FIFA update.

Player names have been updated, all the teams re-jigged (at least up until late August 2006), the animation is better and some of the old gameplay niggles have been addressed.

However, defenders now close you down before you find an unlikely scoring ‘hotspot’ and player and ball physics are more realistic.

There’s a fuller management mode than before but nothing to trouble the Football Manager or Championship Manager series, but a welcome tactical addition nonetheless. And, of course, there’s the atmosphere. Those 3D stadia, the ‘live’ commentary and star likenesses – no other footy game comes close.

The multiplayer component has been improved thanks an interactive League, where you can play as your favourite team against others alongside the real schedule – so at full time you can compare ‘your’ Chelsea Vs Arsenal scoreline against Jose’s. Well, it’s a nice gimmick.

However, just round the corner is the next Pro Evolution Soccer release, and fans of its more instinctive gameplay will never be seduced by official licences and star names alone.

This may be the best FIFA yet, but we’ll find out in a few weeks if it’s good enough to win the cup. Remember, it’s a game of two halves, Brian.

Also consider
Sensible Soccer 2006
Overall: For a nostalgic football journey, Sensible Soccer 2006 is great
Rating: 3/5
Price: £20

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