Striker Pro 2000

"This game gets booked for lacking the international team licenses FIFA had!"

OK, so Striker Pro 2000 wasn't all that I had thought it would be. First of all, let me warn you that this isn't FIFA. It's United European Football Association (UEFA) Another thing is that, because of this, most of the teams are European, and many of them may be some that you have never heard of. Of course, with secret codes, plus the ability to edit custom teams and create your own teams and players, this may actually be worth a trip onto the pitch for.


Graphics: 9/10
The game moves at a smooth 30 FPS rate, with a television style presentation. There is no screen blanking for penalties, throw ins, etc. The facial animations are a little rough around the edges, but otherwise, the rest of the game looks and plays alright.


Sounds: 9/10
Two English commentators provide some play-by-play action. Unfortunately, the ref's whistle is rather muted, which is a drag compared to the rest of the sounds, such as player groans and crowd yells. Because the game is based on English rules and commentary, you might see certain things like 'bookings' and 'friendly' instead of things like 'fouls' and 'exhibition.'


Controls: 9/10
The game supports analog control, but it doesn't have analog pressure support, you must still hold a button to dash. You can perform two different types of standing or sliding tackles (one in your facing direction and one in the ball direction.) Unfortunately, slides tend to result in fouls. Even worse, though, is the fact that the computer almost always never gets booked (let alone called) whereas you bring a player down and you'll receive a booking!


Replay: 9/10
The unknown names (if you're not from Europe or familiar with this kind of stuff) along with difficult rules may turn some players off. Of course, with the ability to edit many of the names and players, you may find some fun with this game.


Overall: 9/10
Docked a point for the touchiness, Striker Pro 2000 is best tried-before-bought. Of course, if you're a diehard soccer freak, this may be one of your best purchases yet. Get out there on the pitch and have at it!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 04/27/00, Updated 07/16/01