Fifa 0 - 1 Pro Evo

So, here it is. The debate that has raged through eternity. Which is better? FIFA or Pro Evolution Soccer? I have decided to answer this complex conundrum with a series of further questions that will help us all reach a conclusion.

Which looks better?

This is a tough one. Graphics within gameplay for both are strikingly similar. There really isn’t much to chose between them. However, if you look at the menus and the detail throughout the rest of the game then FIFA wins.

Result: FIFA win

Which has more depth?
Well this is a pretty simple answer. FIFA has about a million more leagues than Pro Evo. It has all the official licenses, compared to just the few that Pro Evo has. However, I do feel that Pro Evo has the edge when it comes to player tactics and formations.

Result: FIFA win

Which is better online?
Let’s be brutally honest here. Pro Evo is nothing short of an utter mess online. It is riddled with slowdown and lag. It’s nearly impossible to play. FIFA on the other hand is the absolute definition of smoothness; it’s so smooth it’s silky. And on top of that the regular squad updates and various patches keep it as up to date as is possible with all world wide transfer activity.

Result: FIFA with as thumping Leyton Orient Style victory over Newcastle Utd

Which is better produced (nicely polished)?

Without a doubt FIFA is the more impressively produced of the two. The menus are easy to navigate. The arena loading screen, where the user can hone their skills, is a touch of genius. Konami seem to have just released the previous year’s version with little or no improvements. It stinks of minimal effort and laziness.

Result: FIFA win

So we come to it, which is the best game?
Well it’s pretty obvious isn’t it? Pro Evo wins. Despite its shortcomings it still has by far the best engine on it. It feels like football. No matter how often I played FIFA I always thought the ball acted like one of those balls you win at school fates. There is no doubt though, FIFA has improved massively in recent years. Don’t get me wrong, I am far from happy with lack of effort from Konami and if they don’t iron out the mistakes and vastly improve the online segment of the game they are in massive danger of being overtaken and then being left trailing in EA Sports wake.

Result: Pro Evo win