Fifa 11 - PS3

Status:

• Complete in Box
• Play Tested

FIFA 11 for the PlayStation 3, released in 2010, is part of EA Sports' long-running soccer simulation franchise. It is known for its improvements in gameplay mechanics, visuals, and various new features that built on its predecessors. Here's a review based on different aspects of the game:

1. Gameplay

FIFA 11 brings several refinements to the gameplay, making it one of the most realistic soccer simulations of its time. Some key gameplay features include:

• Personality+: This feature improved the individuality of players, making them feel more unique based on their real-life attributes. For instance, players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo felt much more agile and capable of pulling off incredible tricks, while others had distinct styles that reflected their real-world counterparts.

• Pro Passing: One of the biggest changes in FIFA 11 was the introduction of Pro Passing, which made passing more realistic. The new system meant that passes were affected by the skill level of the player and the conditions of the match (e.g., distance, pressure, or timing). It brought an added level of challenge and made passing less automatic than in previous titles, rewarding those who could master the control mechanics.

• Improved AI: The artificial intelligence received a noticeable upgrade. Teammates would make better runs, position themselves intelligently, and react more naturally to the ball. Defenders were also smarter, challenging the ball more effectively, which made playing defense feel less chaotic.

• Tactical Defending: A major overhaul in the defensive mechanics. Tackling and defensive positioning were more nuanced, and the emphasis was placed on proper positioning rather than spamming the tackle button. This gave defending a more thoughtful and strategic feel, which balanced the game more effectively.

2. Graphics & Presentation

For its time, FIFA 11 delivered impressive visuals. The character models looked realistic, and the motion capture of player animations was smoother than in previous iterations. Some standout graphical elements include:

• Player Animations: The game featured fluid animations, particularly in terms of dribbling, shooting, and player movement. The way players reacted to challenges and controlled the ball was more dynamic than before.

• Stadiums & Atmosphere: The stadiums were richly detailed, and the crowd animations added to the immersion, with better visuals for things like banners and flags. The atmosphere was lively, with enhanced crowd reactions to key moments in the match.

3. Modes & Features

FIFA 11 offers a robust set of game modes that cater to different play styles:

• Career Mode: The Career Mode in FIFA 11 allows you to manage a club or play as a single player. The mode improved from previous entries, with enhanced player development, contracts, and the inclusion of the option to play through multiple seasons. While it was still not as deep as some fans hoped for, it provided a solid managerial experience.

• Ultimate Team: FIFA 11 introduced the Ultimate Team mode, where players could build their dream team by earning or purchasing player cards. This mode quickly became a fan favorite and would grow into one of the most