It can't quite keep up with FIFA, but it's still a must for soccer fans.
Not much has changed with the commentary, though. It's still dead on, but also mainly steady, with no genuine emotion going into what the commentators say, outside of a rush for the goal, as expected. Some will prefer this straight-and-narrow approach, while others may be wondering why the guys don't cut loose and have as much fun as the fans are clearly having. Speaking of the fans, they're still as loud and dedicated as ever, God bless 'em.
Where PES 2014 makes its biggest strides is with its gameplay. The shooting and ball mechanics feel like a dream for soccer fans, whether you're going for a through pass or taking a long shot on the goal if you think you can get ahead of the keeper. Being able to switch on certain auto-assists and add touches with the right analog stick, to lend it a certain kind of finesse as you kick the ball, are very cool, though some processes take a while to learn. At least you can keep tabs on where the ball is and plot your next course of attack, provided your AI partners don't fall asleep on the job. We've lost a goal or two because they plodded along a little slower than the route we sent them on. It's not a consistent error, but when it comes up, it will get under your skin for a bit.
Outside of gameplay, though, Konami maintains the status quo – especially when it comes to Master League options. Here's a mode that could be so much more, like EA's simulation modes, where you control every aspect of your team online and off. That's not to say the Master League isn't without its merits, as its online offerings and various team-adjusting options – time to try a different club job! – will please fans. However, with the next-generation of consoles coming, Konami needs to step its game up and add more things for players to do within the league, or it'll be left in the dust by whatever EA is planning. Fans will still enjoy what's here, at least.
