A familiar kick with refined touches
PES 2019 PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER delivers a solid football simulation experience, aiming to capture the essence of the beautiful game. With enhanced licenses and partnerships, it offers a more authentic feel. The "Magic Moments" feature and tactical depth in club management add layers of strategy, appealing to those seeking more than just a quick match.
However, while the game boasts improvements, it doesn't revolutionize the series. Longtime fans might find it a familiar experience with incremental upgrades, rather than a groundbreaking evolution. The focus on individual player skills and tactical build-up is commendable, but the core gameplay remains largely consistent.
Enhanced player skills, like the "no-look pass"and "dipping shot," add flair to gameplay, allowing for more creative plays. The emphasis on build-up play, especially from the back, encourages strategic thinking. Utilizing the goalkeeper as a passing option to bypass high-pressure tactics is a clever touch, rewarding players who understand tactical nuances. However, the AI's consistency can be questionable, sometimes failing to capitalize on open opportunities.
Diving deeper into on-pitch dynamics in the game
The licensing and partnerships are a significant plus, providing a more authentic experience with real teams and stadiums. Seeing Liverpool reveal their kit in the game highlights the partnership benefits. Despite these positives, the game still struggles with some animation glitches and occasionally clunky controls, which can disrupt the flow of the match. This issue is a long-standing problem for the series.
While the tactical depth is appreciated, the learning curve can be steep for newcomers. Mastering the intricacies of build-up play and utilizing player skills effectively requires time and practice. Lastly, the PC version's system requirements are relatively demanding, potentially excluding players with older hardware. Adding to that, the game's AI, while generally competent, can sometimes exhibit unpredictable behavior, leading to frustrating moments. The online multiplayer experience, though enjoyable, can suffer from occasional lag and connectivity issues, further impacting the gameplay.
A decent simulation, but not without flaws
PES 2019 offers a refined football experience, catering to fans of the series and newcomers alike. The game’s attempt to mimic the realism of a football match, while incorporating interactive elements, is largely successful. However, the game is not without its issues, namely, animation glitches, clunky controls, and demanding PC system requirements. While it offers a thrilling interactive experience, it doesn't entirely escape some of the series’ persistent shortcomings.
