Virtua Striker 2002

"Minor bugs and animation problems don't even dent the gameplay."

Undoubtedley, through some form or other, you will have played at least one version of VS. Whether you like the series or not is a completely different matter. It is an extremely accuired taste that many just don't like while others (like myself) adore the game.

VS has always been the Marmite (U either love it or hate it:) of the gaming industry and die hard fans will be pleased to know that it hasn't changed. It is extremely easy to pick up and play but mastering shooting and tackling takes some time. However some may be put off by the lack of responsiveness, it takes a slight margin of time for the game to react to your button press. If you like completely realistic and responsive footie games, stop reading, go to the ISS review just now.

Graphics:
Next to FWC2002, this game has the greatest football graphics ever seen. From the utterly realistic crowds to the extremely detailed boots, this game has the lot. With the vast range of detailed facial features you can choose from in edit mode, you can almost make any player look identical. Even Davids' glasses and Totti's headband are amongst the features included. The crowd stay still, then go nuts when a goal is scored in a penalty shootout. Each member of the crowd also have different movements. No doubt this game is incredibly detailed. 10/10

Sound:
Sound is good but not great. Commentry is too cheesy and is few and far between, however, keep in mind that this is an arcade game and dosen't realy need great commentary. Crowd noise is effective and they make all the appropriate noises at the right times. All in all, good for an arcade game. 6/10

Gameplay:
Ah the all important gameplay, well how does it measure up? First off if yuor looking for realism then this isn't your game. If however your looking for incredible goals, fast paced action and a great multiplayer, then this is your game. Playing with a mate is amazingly fun and most games turn out quite even. The only downfall here is the midfeild possession scramble. On average my games have at least 2 red cards due to the fact that, when the ball gets into the midfeild, tackles fly everywhere in a desperate attempt to get the ball, this can however result in some fun or frustration. Goals are fantastic and you'll want to better your highest score constantly. Theres nothing better than hitting a forty yard screamer-see it hit off one post and roll dangerously accross the goal line then creep in. All in all an incredibly fun game.
9/10

Overall:
The keeper animations are poor and the midfeild battles can be annoying but his doesen't even dent the gameplay for people who love fast paced action footie games. 9/10

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 06/25/02, Updated 06/25/02