Remember the theory that you can get by purchasing a new Fifa game every second year? If that went out the Window with Fifa 12, it looks as if it should never have existed with the 2013 edition.
EA sports always says this year’s version is the most realistic yet. However, this week at E3, they demonstrated just how unrealistic Fifa 12 actually is in a effort to contrast the vast improvements this year. The changes will be huge for the franchise.
Whether that’s for the better will be determined by players. Hardcore soccer (football) fans will be in heaven with the best simulation of the world game to date. Meanwhile, existing Fifa fans who mightn’t be as interested in the real sport, will have to relearn how to play the game.
The biggest issue in Fifa 12, was that every player was a star. Even the terrible rank 50 players would consistently control the ball as well as the superstars of the game. No more. All players will make mistakes, from the rubbish pretenders to the Rooneys and Messis having an off day. They won’t always take clean possession, and defenders will be caught out if they try to be too fancy, rather than simply clearing the ball.
The biggest issue in Fifa 12, was that every player was a star. Even the terrible rank 50 players would consistently control the ball as well as the superstars of the game.
Perhaps more impressive, players actually run in a somewhat realistic fashion. They try and get in position two or three passes before getting involved in the play. Once used, they will also run to useful space, rather than off to a ridiculous 45 degree angle. You don’t realise how bad it was in Fifa 12 until it is directly pointed out to you.
The offside trap also becomes less of an issue, as your attacking players won’t constantly snake between on and offside whilst still calling for the ball. They’ll ensure they are still in the play, and signal to tell you just that.
Tackling also benefits from a more realistic makeover. When pressuring a player, they’ll lose control of the ball if they don’t make a decision quickly. Conversely, if the tackling player overcommits, he will fall to ground and disappoint his teammates in the process.
It’s complimented by even more precise dribbling skills, and the ability to move in one direction while facing another.
If you thought Fifa 12 was a revolution for the franchise, Fifa 13 looks set to blow it out of the water with distinctive realism.
In other news, due to the Americans' ridiculous love for Madden (WTF is going on in this sport), I actually looked half good at virtual soccer.
By Ben Salter - Bio