Pro Evolution Soccer 2015 A Solid Entry with Some Room for Growth on Xbox One
Score: 7.5/10
Pro Evolution Soccer 2015 (PES 2015) marks a return to form for Konamis long-running soccer franchise on the Xbox One. While not without its flaws, the game offers a polished and enjoyable soccer experience that combines realistic gameplay with responsive controls, making it a strong contender in the sports genre. Although it may not reach the same heights as some of its competitors, PES 2015 provides an entertaining and deep soccer simulation, especially for those who value authenticity and tactical play.
Gameplay: PES 2015s gameplay offers a refined soccer simulation that emphasizes realism and fluidity. The player movements are more natural, with animations that make players feel more alive on the field. The ball physics are notably improved compared to previous entries, providing a more realistic trajectory and reaction to player inputs. Dribbling, passing, and shooting feel responsive, allowing players to control the game with precision. The passing system, in particular, stands out for its ability to provide both short and long passes with an appropriate level of weight, making the game feel more strategic and thoughtful.
The AI is smarter than before, with defensive players showing a more realistic approach to covering space and pressing attackers. Offensive AI also makes better runs, although at times, the movements can still feel a bit predictable. The game rewards tactical play, with players needing to think about positioning, team strategies, and buildup play rather than relying purely on individual skill. PES 2015s slower, more deliberate pace gives it a distinct feel compared to other soccer games on the market.
The game offers several modes, including the return of Master League, Become a Legend, and the myClub mode, which is similar to FIFAs Ultimate Team. Master League allows players to manage a team and make strategic decisions, while Become a Legend puts you in the shoes of a single player, progressing through their career. myClub allows you to build your team by collecting players through contracts and match play, offering a robust system for team management and progression.
Graphics and Sound: On the Xbox One, PES 2015 looks solid, with well-detailed player models and fluid animations during gameplay. The character likenesses of top stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are impressive, though some of the less prominent players may not have as much attention to detail. The stadiums are well-designed, with vibrant crowds and realistic pitch textures, though they lack the level of detail seen in FIFA games. The animations in the game are fluid, and player movements are smooth, creating a natural feel during matches.
The sound design is a strong point in PES 2015. The crowd noise is immersive, with the stadium atmosphere reacting appropriately to the events on the field. The commentary, delivered by Peter Drury and Jim Beglin, is competent, though it can become repetitive after a while. It lacks the dynamic and varied lines that EA Sports FIFA franchise often delivers, but it does its job well enough to maintain immersion. The soundtrack is a mix of upbeat songs that complement the games energy, though it doesnt stand out as much as other sports games' soundtracks.
Licensing and Teams: Licensing has always been a challenge for Pro Evolution Soccer compared to FIFA, and PES 2015 is no exception. While the game features many top teams, it lacks the official licenses for some of the biggest leagues and clubs, such as the Premier League. This means that certain teams appear with altered names, which may be off-putting for players
