FIFA Soccer 2002

"Golden Game"

With the World Cup going on, I figured I’d bring it to life in my living room. So I went out, got the game, and threw it into my GCN. The first thing I noticed was the clean picture, something EA is known for, so I wasn’t too surprised. Since I was alone, I was pinned with not much to do except Tournament play. While it was loading, I tried to understand the controls, which at first were a bit awkward, but they grew on me after a few games. After losing countless games, I decided I would call some friends over and duke it out in multiplayer. With that, they were on their way over, where we would play 4-player for a few hours. Like every other sports game, the multiplayer is where you get your money’s worth.

Like I said, the graphics are smooth, and so is the game. I have yet to experience any slowdown, and doubt I ever will. Replays are impressive, and emotions are ample. Watching the goalie fall to his knees after allowing a goal and seeing a player bite his lip after being kicked is definitely amusing. There are also weather and field options, varying the way you play. Each face is unique, and there are multiple teams to choose from.

Another thing I enjoyed was the ability to create my own teams and characters, then customizing them from their looks to what position they play. About the positions though, I still don’t know what they mean. I’m not a huge soccer buff, and the positions are abbreviated, leaving me clueless. I didn’t mind though, but it wasn’t a turn-on. As mentioned before, the controls will take some time to grow on you, but it’s only a matter of 2-3 games. This is definitely a game that you will enjoy playing with your friends, I know I have and will continue doing so.

Now on to the sound, which is mainly commentary. An Aussie with much to say tells the game play-by-play. After everything that happens, comes a comment from this guy. An occasional joke or insult may be slipped in also. I must say, this game is packed with comments, the announcer has something to say about everything, and more! In game sound is like any other soccer game, you hear the “uh” when they kick it, you hear the crowd cheering, and anything else you’d expect to hear in a soccer game.

In terms of lasting appeal, this game provides many MULTIPLAYER hours of fun. I can’t express it enough that multiplayer is what will bring you back to this game. I’m not saying that you won’t have fun playing against the computer, I’m just saying it’s much better when you’ve got someone to laugh with when the ball hits someone in the face and brings them to the ground. If and when you find yourself playing alone, you have the option to create teams, players, and leagues, which will keep you occupied.

To conclude, this game is definitely a plus. I would recommend it to anyone, except one of immense hate for the sport. If you are thinking of buying this, you won’t be let down, but make sure you don’t only have one controller. You will get much more out of the game if you have someone to pummel, or in some cases, pummel you. Long things short, this game is definitely good for a rental for some, and a purchase for others.

Breaking it down:

Visuals – 10 (Beautiful effects, stunning character models. All around good.)
Gameplay – 10 (Tournament, Multiplayer, Create-a-player/team/league. Plenty to do.)
Sound – 9 (It’s commentary, and just hearing a guy talk can get old.)
Control – 9 (It takes a few games to understand them fully, but from then on it’s clear sailing.)
Lasting Appeal – 10 (With the options and multiplayer, this game will always be fun.)
Overall – 9 (It’s the best soccer game I’ve played, period.)

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 06/29/02, Updated 06/29/02