FIFA 09 : Tokyo Game Show 2008: FIFA 09 Hands-on

After talking about the new Winning Eleven 2009, we had to show Konami’s arch rival's new sequel, FIFA 09.

Last year EA Sports surprised lot of people with new game play that's more realistic and less arcade like. So has Fifa bested Winning Eleven?

Regarding graphics, I loved it. I was impressed by the previous version, and yep, this new Fifa makes it is a real pleasure to control your favorite player.

As for game play, the biggest problem… well, I like controlling defenders with interesting, improved dribbling, and ball control. The ball can be placed anywhere and there's great collision management, depending on the player's physical attributes. Good management of team tactics. EA also improved goalkeeper intelligence.

In general terms the game is neither too fast nor too slow. I was a bit disappointed regarding shots in front of the keeper. I found the shots were a little to guided, Winning Eleven remains better here. Otherwise, pad controls can be customized as desired.

The novelty concerned the improved Be A Pro mode allowing for play of up to ten real players. The previous version was limited to five. If you go to the TGS, and a fan of football games, go to EA's booth to play this mode.

Fifa is close to catching up with Winning Eleven, and is becoming more and more interesting.