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2002 FIFA World Cup ( Xbox)
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Determined to squeeze every last ounce out of the FIFA license, Electronics Arts have released their footy sim for the Xbox--2002 FIFA World Cup. Taking the essence of FIFA 2002 and modifying it for the world's greatest tournament, EA have restricted the scope of the game, offering only two modes of play (full tournament and friendly) and the 32 teams which are taking part in the tournament. That said, it still plays the same as its older brother and the look and feel given by the inclusion of the new stadia and enhanced sound effects really brings the game to life. Owners of the full-fat 2002 game will want to think very seriously before paying out for this "special" release, but for those who've not come across the franchise before, or those looking for a break from Pro Evolution Soccer, this game has entertainment by the sack load. Graphically it looks the business and the pre-match build-ups are eye candy to please any jaded palette. In-game, too, the player graphics are nicely detailed and there are some wonderful individual animations covering all manner of complex looking moves, swerves and dives. In fact, the only thing that really lets the side down is the speed of the game during more hectic midfield moments, when the frame rate stutters appallingly--a little poor for a game that's been through so many development revisions. Control is nice and simple and it's a breeze to pick this title up and start booting the pigskin around the park within a couple of minutes, though mastering the finer points of ball control and the elusive "lob in" will take a good deal longer. 2002 FIFA World Cup really does have a lot going for it. It's not as technical as the ISS games, and it doesn't have the scope or gameplay modes of FIFA 2002, but it does have atmosphere in abundance. If you're a newcomer to the franchise or you've missed the last couple of major releases then it's certainly worth a look. --Chris Russell
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5/5 |
Not too easy...
(July 05, 2004) |
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One reviewer states that the game is too easy. Yes, the game starts
on an easy setting. But simply turn the difficulty to Pro, and you're in for a challenge.Undoubebly a great football title. Like most EA football games. |
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5/5 |
Just Get Passed That First Hurdle
(May 16, 2002) |
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When I initially heard that a Fifa title was being released on my beloved XBOX I was delighted, I knew I was going to get something that had a superb build quality to it. Then after my first play I was mightily disappointed, I seemed unable to head the ball and my passes always went astray of their target. Then with practice I learnt how to get my passes to go the correct player and my striker to head that wonder goal. I can be pretty sure that as long as you put in the effort, you will be rewarded with a quality footy title. |
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1/5 |
Fifa - but not like it should be
(May 10, 2002) |
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This is by far the worst football game I have yet played. Don't get me wrong, the graphics are superb, and the abilities of the players excellent. But on my first attempt i got to the final! Says it all. Far too easy - definitely designed for kids. Grown up kids - dont bother! |
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5/5 |
Excellent !!!
(May 08, 2002) |
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Amazing graphics and excellent game play makes this one of the best footballing games I have ever played. You just get on with it. No hassle, just get on the pitch & play. It's smooth, fun & will have you hooked in no-time! Games like this make you feel glad you bought an X-box. |
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4/5 |
It's good - but could have been perfect
(May 03, 2002) |
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As we have come to expect now from the X-Box, this game is a visual treat right from the off with a slick menu and some uncanny player models that look like their real-life counterparts (the Steve McManaman, David Beckham and Zinedine Zidane models are particularly good). Sound is good and the game runs at a cracking pace when put on Fastest mode (the normal mode is way too sluggish for me). It's also smooth most of the time, which is a credit to the game engine as there is a LOT going on here - massive baloons in the stadium, toilet rolls being thrown out of the crowd, streamers, confetti the lot is here. So the odd framerate loss is perhaps forgivable (and hardly ever happens to be honest). Gameplay is different from earlier FIFA games - the passing has been changed and the shooting also - no more impossible sixpence turn and shooting here - you need to be facing the target somewhat (although you can easily apply generous aftertouch to bend the ball like Roberto Carlos if you are not quite plumb). The Star Player feature is quite good as well - Michael Owen has pace and shooting as his special abilities and when you use any of the special abilities, you get a visual indication of this (a speed blurr behind the player and a red-hot boot sending the ball on it's way with a comet trail). This gives the game a more arcade feel about it. More differences include the one-two - now you can use the second thumbstick which makes this almost essential technique so easy to execute. But sadly there are problems too - the graphics seem to break up a bit on some of the players - Michael Owen has a hole in his head when close-up, for example. And the goalkeepers - I think our friend Fabien Barthez has been the model for them all - they are excellent one second and then drop real clangers the next. It's enjoyable nonetheless - and will be a game you can throw on and play at any time. 8/10 for me. |
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