World Soccer Winning Eleven 7 International

"This is quite simply the best football game ever"

This is the third instalment in the Pro Evolution Soccer series and it certainly lived up to the high expectations. After the huge success of the previous two it may have been questioned whether this game would have enough improvements to warrant a purchase. After hours of playing I can say that this is defiantly worth a look.

Graphics 9/10
There has been a major improvement in the graphics since last year. There are now a number of club teams that have their official kits and sponsors, which has never been in the game before. These teams include AC Milan, Juventus, Lazio, Roma and a few others. It just adds that little extra to the game and puts it apart from the previous versions. The players themselves look more realistic than ever and their faces look so much like they do in real life it’s scary! Overall though the graphics are not the best you are going to see. However, the replays look amazing and the overall presentation is not bad either. There is also an intro to each match that shows the players in the tunnel with the referee and it’s a nice touch as it adds that little bit more realism to the game.

Gameplay 10/10
This will be the reason you buy this game. From the moment you start playing it you realise this is in another class to other games such as FIFA. If you have never played any of the PES games before (or even if you have) you will find it extremely challenging. You can’t just run past an entire team or shoot from 40 yards out and hope to score. You need to play the game the same way as you would in real life. To score a goal you will need strategy and patience. Build up play is a major part of this game so if there is no teamwork you won’t win. Whether playing with a friend or against the computer the challenge is always there and it’s so incredibly fun! You’ll find yourself really getting into the game, as most matches are close encounters. The games themselves are as realistic as they get. They have now added handball and the advantage rule. Sometimes these can become an annoyance but you’ll soon realise that it’s all part of the game and that you just have to accept it. The referees sometimes make wrong decisions, but doesn’t that happen in real life? It all adds up to the most realistic football game ever.

Sound 7/10
This is my only real major complaint about this game. The actual sounds of the crowd are great but it’s the commentary and music that let it down. At times the commentary is appalling and you can’t believe what they are saying. This is the one area that I would say FIFA is better than PES3. The music during the game menus is almost as bad but I think most people would be able to put up with it.

Replayability 10/10
You will be playing this until PES4 comes out. Each match is different and more exciting than the last. When you add in the Master League there are even more possibilities. In this mode you start of with a bunch of nobodies and have to sign and sell players as you make your way up the divisions. The good thing about the Master League is that is never ending, meaning you can play as many seasons as you want. Another feature is the PES points. After each game and when you win a tournament or league you are rewarded with points that can be spent in the PES shop. You can purchase things such as players, classic teams, kits and much more.

Overall 10/10
With the only complain being the sound I have no choice but to give it a perfect 10. You won’t be disappointed with this game. It offers everything you would want in a football game and so much more. With the endless Master League and entertaining gameplay this one won’t leave you PS2 for quite a while.

Thanks for reading and enjoy the game!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 11/29/03