PES 2018: A Comprehensive Review of Konami's Football Sim

Pro Evolution Soccer 2018 (PES 2018) marked another entry in Konami’s long-running and celebrated football simulation franchise. Released in 2017, PES 2018 aimed to build upon the strengths of its predecessors while introducing new features and improvements to enhance the overall gameplay experience. This review delves into the various aspects of the game, analyzing its strengths and weaknesses, and providing a comprehensive assessment of its impact on the football gaming landscape.

Gameplay and Mechanics: A Blend of Realism and Strategy

PES 2018 prioritized a realistic simulation of association football. The game mechanics focused on strategic gameplay, demanding precise timing and accurate player positioning for effective passing and scoring. Unlike some of its faster-paced competitors, PES 2018 opted for a more deliberate pace, encouraging players to carefully consider their moves and build attacks methodically. This slower tempo, while potentially polarizing, added a layer of depth and strategic thinking that rewarded skillful play and tactical awareness.

The animation system received significant praise, delivering smooth and fluid player movements that enhanced the game’s realism. The ball physics were similarly refined, resulting in realistic ball trajectories and interactions with players and the environment. These advancements contributed significantly to the immersive experience, creating a sense of control and agency rarely seen in other football games of the time.

The game’s increased skill curve presented a challenge to casual players, requiring a deeper understanding of the nuances of football tactics and player positioning. Mastering the art of passing, defending, and attacking demanded patience and practice, offering a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time.

Master League and Multiplayer Modes: Enhanced Social Interaction

PES 2018 significantly expanded its multiplayer options compared to previous installments. The introduction of 2v2 and 3v3 online modes allowed players to team up with friends or compete against others online, adding a new dimension of social interaction and competition. The cooperative gameplay modes fostered teamwork and communication, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

The popular Master League mode, a cornerstone of the PES franchise, returned with refinements and additions. Players could manage their own football clubs, signing players, negotiating contracts, and guiding their team to glory. Pre-season tournaments and other events added further depth and replayability to the mode. The Master League offered a compelling management simulation experience, allowing players to test their managerial skills and strategize their way to success.

Customization and Licensing: Addressing Limitations

One area where PES 2018 faced ongoing challenges was licensing. The game lacked licenses for many real-world clubs and players, resulting in generic team names and player likenesses. However, Konami compensated for this limitation with an extensive customization suite. Players could extensively rework their football club’s design, creating unique logos, kits, and stadiums. The ability to edit player appearances allowed players to essentially create their own versions of real-world players, mitigating the impact of the licensing restrictions. This customization functionality empowered players to tailor the game to their preferences, creating a unique and personalized experience.

Visual and Audio Presentation: A Mixed Bag

While the gameplay and mechanics received widespread acclaim, the visual and audio presentation in PES 2018 presented a more mixed picture. The graphics, while functional, lacked the polish and detail seen in its console counterparts. This was understandable, given the limitations of the mobile platform. However, the audio quality was a recurring point of criticism. Regardless of the platform, the audio aspects of the game consistently fell short, failing to deliver the immersive soundscape expected from a modern football game.

Mobile Version Specific Considerations

The Android version of PES 2018, as mentioned, suffered from some compromises compared to its console counterparts. The reduced graphical fidelity and the poorer audio quality were notable drawbacks. However, it’s important to consider that the mobile version represented a significant achievement in bringing a high-quality football simulation experience to a wider audience. The ability to play a relatively sophisticated football game on a mobile device was a noteworthy accomplishment. The smaller file size and optimized gameplay facilitated smoother performance on various mobile devices.

PES 2018’s Legacy and Impact

PES 2018, despite its limitations in licensing and audio, solidified its position as a strong competitor in the football gaming market. Its refined gameplay, improved multiplayer options, and extensive customization features provided a compelling alternative to established competitors. The game’s focus on realistic football physics and strategic gameplay appealed to a niche audience that appreciated a more tactical and deliberate approach to virtual football. The success of PES 2018 demonstrated the enduring appeal of the PES franchise and its ability to innovate and evolve while maintaining its core identity.

The improved multiplayer modes fostered a strong online community, with players competing and collaborating in various online matches. The Master League mode continued to be a compelling and engaging experience for players seeking a management simulation alongside their on-field action.

The game’s impact extended beyond its immediate release. The success of its gameplay mechanics and the improvements made in areas such as animation and ball physics informed subsequent iterations of the PES series, contributing to the overall evolution of the franchise.

Conclusion: A Solid, If Imperfect, Entry

PES 2018 delivered a solid, albeit imperfect, football simulation experience. While the lack of comprehensive licensing and subpar audio quality were undeniable drawbacks, the game’s strengths – its realistic physics, smooth animation, enhanced multiplayer modes, and extensive customization – overshadowed these weaknesses for many players. The strategic depth of the gameplay rewarded skillful play and tactical awareness, providing a rewarding and immersive experience for those willing to invest the time to master its mechanics. For those seeking a more tactical and realistic football game, PES 2018 remained a compelling choice, despite its flaws, solidifying its place as a significant entry in the long history of the Pro Evolution Soccer franchise.