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FIFA 19 (PS4) Review
Developer: EA Sports
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Sports / Football
Release: 2018
FIFA 19 is an important entry in EA Sports' long-running football series, most notably because it finally brought the UEFA Champions League, Europa League and Super Cup into the FIFA franchise. Alongside the new competitions, EA introduced Active Touch, Timed Finishing, Dynamic Tactics and 50/50 Battles, while bringing The Journey to its conclusion.
Although much of the underlying gameplay and many of the established modes remain familiar, FIFA 19 is a polished and content-rich football game. Its biggest weakness is that several important modes, particularly Career Mode, receive relatively little meaningful development.
Gameplay & Mechanics
The basic FIFA formula remains intact, with passing, crossing, dribbling, tackling and shooting forming the foundation of every match. However, FIFA 19 introduces several mechanics that add additional depth.
The Active Touch System changes how players receive and control the ball. Using the right stick allows players to manipulate their first touch, create space and perform more creative receptions. It is particularly effective when controlling technically gifted players.
Timed Finishing is another major addition. Players can press the shoot button a second time to attempt to improve the accuracy and power of a shot. Correct timing can produce spectacular finishes, while poor timing can result in embarrassing misses.
Dynamic Tactics allows players to prepare different tactical approaches and switch between them during matches. This makes it easier to change from defensive football to an attacking system without stopping the flow of the game.
Strengths
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Responsive and enjoyable football gameplay.
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Active Touch adds more control to first touches.
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Timed Finishing introduces an interesting risk/reward mechanic.
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Dynamic Tactics improves tactical flexibility.
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Players have more distinctive positional roles.
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50/50 Battles make physical contests more meaningful.
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Plenty of difficulty options and gameplay settings.
Weaknesses
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Core gameplay remains very similar to FIFA 18.
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Timed Finishing can feel inconsistent while learning it.
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Some attacking techniques can be overly effective.
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AI occasionally makes questionable defensive decisions.
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Certain matches can feel overly dependent on momentum and animations.
Champions League & Competition Modes
The biggest feature in FIFA 19 is undoubtedly the addition of the UEFA Champions League.
The competition is integrated throughout the game rather than simply appearing as a standalone mode. Players can compete in the Champions League through Career Mode, Ultimate Team and The Journey, while a dedicated tournament mode allows players to create their own competition.
The presentation is excellent, with authentic branding, broadcast graphics, stadium atmosphere and the Champions League aesthetic helping European matches feel different from ordinary league fixtures.
The Europa League and UEFA Super Cup also add additional authenticity.
For football fans, the inclusion of these competitions substantially improves the game's overall package.
Career Mode
Career Mode remains one of the more disappointing aspects of FIFA 19.
Players can manage a club, participate in domestic competitions and now experience the Champions League within their seasons. The traditional manager and player careers remain enjoyable, particularly for players who prefer offline football.
The problem is that Career Mode doesn't evolve significantly enough. Transfer management, scouting, player development and the overall management structure remain familiar.
Considering how much potential the mode has, it feels like EA could have done much more.
Strengths
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Huge selection of clubs and leagues.
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Champions League integration.
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Transfer and squad management remain enjoyable.
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Long-term seasons provide excellent replay value.
Weaknesses
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Limited major innovation.
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Manager career lacks depth compared with its potential.
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AI transfers can still be questionable.
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Youth development could be considerably deeper.
Final Verdict
FIFA 19 is a very good football game and one of the more significant FIFA releases of its generation, largely because of the addition of the UEFA Champions League and Europa League. The new competitions are integrated exceptionally well, while Active Touch, Timed Finishing and Dynamic Tactics provide additional depth to an already strong gameplay system.
Unfortunately, EA continues to leave Career Mode largely underdeveloped, while many of the game's other systems feel like refinements rather than substantial advancements. Ultimate Team remains extremely engaging but also carries the series' familiar monetization concerns.
For football fans, however, the overall package is difficult to ignore. The combination of polished gameplay, enormous content, excellent presentation and the long-awaited Champions League makes FIFA 19 a strong PS4 football experience.
Score: 8.5/10
