Style over substance
Once again EA’s style over substance approach is seen in every aspect of the gameplay. FIFA and Pro Evolution soccer fans have had many a long heated discussion on the two different approaches to goal scoring. In Pro Evolution super goals are rare, and require precision passing and pin point accuracy to create the chance, when you do score a wonder goal you’re almost jumping out of your seat. Scoring spectacular goals in FIFA is a frequent occurrence and, whilst some people love this aspect of FIFA titles, the thrill of scoring such a goal just doesn’t exist.
Click for larger imageOver the years EA have stuck with the same formula for gameplay, albeit with a few tweaks here and there. There are a few changes to the gameplay seen in FIFA 2006, but nothing revolutionary. The speed of the game has been taken up a notch and offers an arcade feel that’s even more prominent than previous FIFA games. The fast and furious action has been a trademark of the FIFA series so fans will no doubt enjoy the change.
Click for larger imageThe first touch of your players also appears to have been improved, it feels more reactive to your controller movement, and the addition of new one-touch passes enhances the gameplay.
There’s also a significant change in your goalkeeper’s movements. During penalty kicks the goalkeeper can now dash along his goaline, jump in the air, crouch down, wave his arms or shake his knees (Bruce Grobellar style), all of which are perfect for putting off your opponent!
Each team in 2006 FIFA World cup has a superstar who shows the same skills and attributes of the ‘real’ player. This superstar also has a unique goal celebration and signature move. Although I haven’t tested the theory with every team, the ones I have tried are accurate.
Basic offensive and defensive controls remain the same but, although you can still manually switch between players, there is the unfortunate occurrence of automatic switching that occurs frequently and can take place at crucial moments.