This is a pretty complex question, as there are many different views out there, so it’s hard to connect and find common ground enough to satisfy everyone. What we can do is try to isolate common themes of interest. Whilst it’s easy to concentrate on the positive traits we share about the game, I strongly feel that it’s the negative traits that bring out stronger emotions in everyone.

Whilst there are many ideas on what’s broken in PES, and what needs fixing in the core game, today I’d like to discuss the topic you all love to hate – Barca Boys. For those of you not quite in the know, or to recap for those that do, the bain of Barca Boys is having to play teams of Barca EVERY SINGLE TIME in MLO mode. So many of us are sick to death of having to play against the same two or three teams which contain the same set of super players.

I’ve written a couple of articles a good few months ago last year with some of my ideas on how to combat this. Without trying to cover too much previous ground, I’ve suggested having a no Champion’s League teams mode for MLO/friendlies. It would mean people pick more balanced teams which may have at best two or three top players only. It would mean people play each other based on strategies best suited to that team against their opponents. You’d hopefully come up against a few teams you’ve never played before and found them a challenge without being impossibly difficult to play against. Most of the time in MLO when an opponents plays with a super duper team, you’re forced to follow suit. This mode would put an immediate end to that.

I’ve asked Konami on a few occasions to provide me with a definitive behind the scenes breakdown of how they combat cheats.
We’ve been told about players that quit often will be penalised. But unless you actively ruin your stats, you have to take what they say as gospel. Whilst I’m not trying to say that Konami are lying to us, it would be beneficial for all if the penalisation system was explained and demonstrated to us. It would help some much need good will. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts this information still hasn’t been revealed. If it ever makes the light of day, I’ll be sure to post it straight away.

Something else which many people want to see is a uniform set of parameters for playing online. This related primarily to the assistance levels for passing and shooting. For the hardcore players amongst us, we play with zero assistance. But when you’re online, you’re actually at a disadvantage against those players with assistance. I would have thought that playing without assistance should have been akin to driving manually in car games. We all know that if you drive in automatic mode and are pitted against manual drivers – they will drive better than you because they’re mastering the control. This principle seems to be lost in PES.
We’re actually penalised for attempting to play with no assistance – which renders it useless online for many!

I’m also kicking off a new Poll entitled Barca Boys – please have your say in a tangible poll which once again can clearly take the fight to Konami from us. I’ve got a few more polls which I want to ask direct questions with the aim of presenting these facts and figures. To do this effectively, I need more than the 100 odd voters for polls that I’ve managed to get of late. Thank you very much to those who’d made the effort to vote – but please spread the word to your mates. The more votes, the more representation being made.

For those of you asking what’s the point – I say quite simply – we’re putting up a fight all the way. We’re not going to give up.
We care about PES and we want to do whatever we can to try to influence it’s production. You can either moan and do nothing, or you can try to make a difference – it’s your choice. Join us in getting the message across to Konami – we’re in this together.

Thanks for reading.

Dougiedonut
(dougiedonut@pesgaming.com)

Over the next few weeks, I plan on rolling out some new and mostly unique articles. I understand that you all want something different to discuss and a lot of readers are emailing me asking for some variety. Due to demand I plan on putting up shooting tutorials and tactical tips and tricks.

While I am not a bad PES player, everybody has an opinion on how to get better at PES. Some of you I’m sure, are world class so I want to hear all your tips and advice. I do read and appreciate all the comments. Anyway, onto today’s article!

Tournament

Firstly I want to do an integrated PES 2012 PESGaming YouTube online Tournament. Over the week I want to get numbers. The more we have the better. The first tournament will hopefully begin around 2-3 weeks from now.

It will be on Xbox 360. What will make this unique is the YouTube aspect. I hope to record every match and commentate on it. Guest commentators may also be involved and if anyone is interested, send me a PM.

• Each match will be recorded, edited, commentated over and uploaded to YouTube.

• Every match will have an article on PESGaming.

• Each player will have a BIO with stats, rating etc.

• Match of the Day style highlights episodes with best goals, worst misses, saves, fails, etc (some funny features)

• Prizes for different achivements. (overall winner, highest scorer, best goal, worst player, etc.) (tbc)

It is something different and could be brilliant so if you are interested, either PM me on Youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/user/TheMidnitekid?feature=mhee

OR, drop a comment below. I will post my email. In the email to me, I want a little bit of PES info about you:

1. Your PESGaming username or xbox GT. (Tournament display name)

2. Favourite PES game in series.

3. Favourite PES player.

4. Location (what country you live in)

5. A general rating of your skill level.  A being the highest. C being lowest.

If you have a HD PVR to record the matches, let me know that also.

Hopefully there will be interest. Oh ya, there will be no Barca or Madrid either :)

If anyone has suggestions, let me hear them.

So get in touch and let’s get playing PES. Look forward to the replies

PES Gaming is looking for a new staff writer, and what better place to start than by advertising through the community! If your interested, please contact dan@pesgaming.com with your name, age, location and a little bit about yourself.

We look forward to hearing from you.

I’d like to run a series of polls over the coming months, and will even switch between them once in a while to see if there are any more voters which may give us more stats to work with.

With diminishing numbers of comments being left on the site, I’m worried about how many people are actually keeping abreast of PES developments, or indeed still interested in it.

Barry has been doing a sterling job over the last couple of months keeping you guys entertained, and interactive with the site.
But I think he deserves large audience numbers which we seem to have lost over the months. Of course this is a traditionally quiet period for PES, but I know we’ve had better and should have more regular visitors.

So we’ll be trying to stoke up the fire with more postings – but we need your help. Are there topics/questions we’re not asking?
Are there new areas you’d like us to discuss more? Please take the time to give us some feedback on how we can improve the site to not only retain readership, but gain back the old crowd.

Is it us, or is PES not holding your interest like it used to? To help answer this question, I’ve started a new poll centering on the MLO game. Are you guys still playing it?

I’ll be aiming to hit more fundamental, possibly controversial polls going forward. I’m trying to stoke the fire for now, and will maybe even throw petrol on the fire if need be. So please spread the word on our site and hit the polls and comments and let’s talk PES.

Thanks for reading.

Dougiedonut

(dougiedonut@pesgaming.com)

Whatsup lads,

My second pick for MLO Bargain Players of the Week.

Each player is in either orange or red form going upwards for the next 5 days.

Today’s pick is AS ROMA’s dynamic powerhouse midfielder, Simone Perrotta.

Cost: 6,750,440

Condition: 

Teamwork: 92

His stats are below but this guy is a beast. He is a great enforcer in midfield and can pass and shoot too. Deadly all rounder really.

So do you agree with this weeks pick or did I miss someone better??

Total Freedom of Control: This is centred around ball control, as opposed to player freedom of movement.
What does that mean? Simply put, if the Super Cancel controls are still in the game, then expect scripting to “aid” the man you’re controlling in-game. Therefore total freedom is limited to how you receive the ball, and what you initially do with it.

Dynamic First Touch: This feature as got me salivating at the possibilities should it be implemented in the manner I expect. This could make or break the game in my eyes. For too long football games have simply automated the most crucial aspect of the game. A key part of any player’s ability is first touch. Finally we’ll have a game where you are going to have to concentrate 100% on your game, as every pass must be brought under your spell before you can do anything. It’s going to take some getting used to, but it will suddenly make so much sense and you’ll wonder how you ever played football games without this fundamental concept.

Full Manual Passing and Shooting: I can’t say the current full manual passing system is enjoyable, although I only play on full manual passing with zero assistance. True manual passing would probably frustrate many of the more casual gamers, so there is some hand holding in there. But if they passing system matures this time round, and with shooting also benefitting from similar levels of control, this could be big.

Dribbling: The use of the R2 button to caress the ball, which builds on the Dynamic First Touch system, could revolutinise how you control and dribble in the game. All of a sudden keeping control of the ball will be the focus of your gameplay. Master this concept and you could set yourself apart from the masses. It will be interesting to see if there will be levels of control available ranging from fully manual with varying degrees of assistance available.

Full Manual One-Two: I thought this has already been implemented practically with the ability to control two players at once! I guess we’ll have to wait and see how this plays out in the game.

Response Defending: “Players can use R2 and X to slow down an attack, with a double-tap of the X button prompting a perfectly-time challenge.” This statement doesn’t sit well with me just now. Correct me if I’m wrong, but that to me says “double-tap X to successfully tackle every single time”. Unless a perfectly-timed challenge can yield a failed tackling attempt?? I’m sure the wording wasn’t quite meant like that, but I call them as I see them!

Something else which caught my attention was that this feature was spoken about with the PS3 control buttons. A clear sign that this game is not coming out on the 360. You heard it here first folks! (That was a poor attempt at humour in case someone responds back in a fit of rage at Konami or me!)

Goalkeepers: Finally a power bar for throwing the ball out. Whether this means that they’d had a complete overhaul with realistically responsive keepers, or are exactly the same, but with the power bar being the only addition, only time will tell. We pray it’s not the latter..

Player ID
Player Individuality: Hasn’t this always been a hallmark of previous PES games? Even back on the PS1 with ISS Pro games, it was easy to spot star names by their appearance and their abilities. I guess they’ve been neglected a tad, and so will be more apparent. We’ll have to wait and see just how many players are afforded this star treatment to help distinguish them in the game.

Individuality to Goalkeepers: We should be expecting an overhaul for goalkeepers – it’s official. I hope this translates into unrecognisable gameplay from previous games. Goalkeepers have been pretty much the same for over a decade, so this will be a major boost to the game, if done right. It’s going to be an anxious time waiting to see how this works out.

Balance of Play: I guess this is the AI system maturing from last year. With fan feedback this should mean more focussed team play, with sharper player movement off the ball.

Tactical Precision: Again AI evolving is the message here – we’ll ahve to wait and see.

That just about covers it from my perspective, please leave respectful comments with your thoughts on my thoughts.
Please note I’ll be running a series of polls over the coming months to guage your feelings on key areas. I’d really appreciate your participation as it will feed into how I shape my articles in the coming months too.

Thanks for reading.

Dougiedonut
(dougiedonut@pesgaming.com)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4wCqgBTIyA

Whatsup Lads,

What a job Konami have done with the trailer. Out of nowhere they have struck first blood against EA and the battle against FIFA 13 has commenced. It might seem too early to even think about Pes 2013 when there is 6 months left before it’s released but Konami have started the hype train to achieve one thing; awareness. PES is changing, we the fans are being listened to. There’s no bullshit. Most importantly, EVERYBODY is talking about Pes. Talk about stealing FIFA’s Euro DLC! Surely a coincidence?!

While the marketing team at Konami deserve credit, I have to admit the footage fully backs it up. The movement looks amazing. The direction of the game seems to be almost (dare I say it) hardcore PES. The tagline “Talk is cheap” is a serious statement. The potential of the game has caught every football gamers attention. In this day and age, innovation is rare. Potentially, PES has everything going for it. I have wanted PES to go back to it’s roots for ages. I want an incredibly hard game to master. I want to be beaten 10-0 by a far superior player. Leave FIFA have the casual market. Leave it have the licenses. Daymos will sort us XBOX fans out and the PS3 option files are equally amazing.

The confidence Konami seem to have so early in the year fills me with excitement. Shooting and keepers are mentioned in the first few lines. They are tackling those problems head on. There is no way Konami will screw the shooting and keepers up. That is almost a guarantee. It’s an exciting time to be a PES fan that’s for sure. Get in touch below and let me know your feelings on the trailer and details released.

Check out my YouTube Video in which I go into more detail on those features, including what the forums are buzzing about.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4wCqgBTIyA

The download will be released for PlayStation(R)3, Xbox 360(R) and Windows PC on April 27th, and enhances the game’s use of the Copa Santander Libertadores licence. The DLC will introduce a dedicated ‘Copa Santander Libertadores 2012’ game mode, with all the 38 teams, rosters and the official ball for the 2012 competition brought fully up to date.

Similarly, selected parts of the game have been refined for a more fluid in-game experience.

Individuality and Full Control the key as PES 2013 moves the goalposts

Konami Digital Entertainment will offer football fans an unprecedented level of control, when its PES 2013 title returns to the field this Autumn.

As befits a game endorsed by Cristiano Ronaldo – a player who embodies the skill and grace of top level football – PES 2013 sees the series returning to its roots, with the emphasis on the individual skills of the world’s best players, and giving the player the total freedom to play any style of ball, which includes for the first time full control over shots.. This follows further consultation with both football and PES fans alike, and the result is the most faithful recreation of modern day football to date, with players modeled to match the running motions, abilities and playing styles, and the flicks and turns of their real-life counterparts.

Three key elements form the basis of PES 2013’s innovations, with all new additions falling within the fields of PES FullControl, Player ID, and ProActive AI.

PES FullControl (PES FC): Never before has a football game offered such a level of control over the way it is played:

•
Total Freedom of Control: Pro Evolution Soccer introduced the concept of freedom of movement, the new ‘PES FC’ in PES 2013 goes further with total freedom over ball control.

• Dynamic First Touch: PES 2013 introduces subtle ways to receive the ball, from traps, gently lifting it past an attacker to run on to or a variety of other moves. First touch is everything and players can trap the ball using the R2 button, killing the speed of a well-hit pass and bringing it instantly under control, or using the momentum of the pass to turn a defender.

• Full Manual Shooting and Full Manual Passing: PES 2013 offers fully manual passi
ng and for the first time ever manual shooting, allowing users to determine the height and power of each. Long low passes can be sent skimming across the pitch, while shooting the user has total control over where the shot is placed. Skill and precision are needed to master these, but passes can be made into open areas, allowing lone strikers to thrive, while offering an unrivalled variety in ways to score.

• Dribbling: The speed with which a player moves with the ball has been slowed in line with real matches, but using R2 allows players to add various styles to their close control. Players can vary the speed of their dribbling, and cushion the ball as they move freely within a 360-degree circle. The new system allows players to knock a ball past a player and collect it, nutmeg them, or hold up play by shielding the ball as team mates find space and make runs.

• Full Manual One-Two: Active one-two passes can be made, with the second player being moved in any direction), facilitating various tactical movements.

• Response Defending: Countering the attacking options the new dribbling system offers, is a beautifully-balanced defence system. Players can use R2 and X to slow an attack, with a double-tap of the X button prompting a perfectly-timed challenge. Full 360-degree control means that players can check runs and steal the ball from a parallel position, while the individuality element will see world renowned defenders using aerial dominance of physicality to win the ball.

• Goalkeepers: Even the game’s ‘keepers benefit from more control, while their distribution is more precise thanks to the addition of a power gauge when they throw the ball, creating opportunities for new, quicker counter attacks.

Player ID: Player ID focuses on the individual elements and movements that each player boasts:

• Player Individuality: The very best players in PES 2013 will be instantly recognisable via incredible likeness and signature attributes, skills and tricks that bring them to life. The way they run, turn, trap and move the ball, shape to shoot and even celebrate will be noticeably different during play..

• Individuality to Goalkeepers: The individuality of movement has also been extended to between the posts. Goal keeping has been totally invigorated via new animations and play styles. New varieties of saves and reactions have been added to ensure the game’s ‘keepers are in line with the efforts of real shot stoppers. This level of realism also extends to the game’s top-rated goal keepers, with their moves to close attacks down, fling themselves to tip a shot past the post, and in-goal acrobatics benefiting from all new animations and AI.

ProActive AI: ProActive AI unites the control and realism, with players that will respond and find space as befits those at the top of their game:

• Balance of Play: The development team has worked closely with the PES fan base to eradicate any illogical elements to the way players move and run in PES 2013, with the ‘ProActive AI’ system enhancing the speed and balance resulting in a more realistic game experience.
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• Tactical Precision: The balance of play has also been enhanced in the play between defences and the front line, with greater organisation as the teams track back or pelt forward, setting a harder to beat defensive line, teams adjusting faster to ball gain or loss, allowing for quicker counters.

• Enhanced Goalkeepers: Improvements to the goal keepers was voted the key advancement football fans wanted to see in PES 2013, and the team has worked hard with real keepers to ensure the AI decision process has been vastly improved. Keepers now espond with better reactions, clear their lines more effectively and push the ball savely out of play rather than into dangerous areas.

PES 2013 will also boast better connectivity and atmosphere. The popular myPES application will extend the connectivity and communication between Facebook-using PES fans, while the game’s audio effects are being tied closer to the on-field action to provide the kind of buzz seen at top-tier matches, with crowds growing in excitement as their team starts to exert pressure.

“This is an exciting time to be part of the PES community, and PES 2013 marks a new level of playability with the return to our key ethos of utter control and freedom,” commented Jon Murphy, European PES Team Leader. “. Football is all about making magic happen with skill and precision, and PES 2013 truly encapsulates this. Fresh faces within the development team and some very exciting ideas will breathe new life into the PES series, and we look forward to showing what we can do in the coming months.”

Release Date: Autumn 2012
Formats: PlayStation®3, Xbox 360®, Windows PC, PlayStation®2, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable), Nintendo 3DS™, Wii™
Studio: PES Productions

So hold onto your hats, because Jon Murphy, (Mr. PES for Europe) has tweeted a link to what can only be described as an underwhelming teaser trailer for the first PES 2013 trailer, set to land Tuesday 24th April.

The taster 30 second video shows Cristiano Ronaldo, well, not doing much to be honest! It can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2WGpOAdBt0&feature=youtu.be

Your views to what might be the strangest piece of Konami marketing in recent history are welcomed below.

With Pes 2012 nearing the 6 month mark, thoughts naturally turn to the next installment of PES. While I personally think PES 2012 has been a major success, even claiming it to be the best PES yet, I can’t wait for PEs 2013. Since the revamp, I feel the series has improved dramatically, yet a lot of people I talk to seem to have a different opinion. With a split in the PES community widening every year, some love the new direction, some want the series to return to it’s hardcore roots, I wonder if Konami should alter their approach?

The Future

Should Konami take a break next year and focus on developing the best next-gen game they could over a two year period instead of the usual yearly release?

Here’s another idea. HD collections are all the rage now it seems. God of War, Devil May Cry, Splinter Cella and even Konami’s own Metal Gear Solid HD and Silent Hill HD.

Your Opinions

Would  PES fans be interested in a PES HD Collection? If so what games from PES 6 back would be included?

Also what features would you want added or removed?

I hope you all get involved and leave the comments below for debate. Everybody has an opinion, so let’s hear it.

A 0-0 draw with Swansea played out in typical boring fashion. Swansea were happy to defend and draw me in and while i did hit the post with minutes remaining, I would be lying if I said I deserved all 3 points.

Arsenal then showed why they are league leaders with a comprehensive victory over my weakened team. I just can’t get a good streak going. Another loss and yet another blank from my misfiring strikers. Vagner Love couldn’t hit a barn door and I might get rid of him unless he dramatically improves.

Manchester United thumped me 2-0 with Rooney the unstoppable architect, a penalty and assist. I couldn’t really do much as I slumped to back to back defeats. I could be getting the sack as the chairman is losing confidence in me. I don’t blame him but he could of set a more attainable target other than an Europa League spot. I thought it would be achievable but now I would be lucky to finish 10th.

I drew with Wigan and then lost to Blackburn 1-0. With 34 games gone it was almost a foregone conclusion that I wouldn’t catch Fulham or Everton in 8th and 9th respectively.

My next two games were against Liverpool and Tottenham. I knew before kicking a ball that I couldn’t finish anywhere above 10th and drew the first and lost the latter. Tottenham are definitely portrayed very well in the game. Their passing and style is so realistic to what you would on any given Sunday in the Premier League. Bale scored 3 and Krancjar finished me off with a header.

So with 2 games remaining, I had 48 points. I couldn’t be caught by 11th place Blackburn and it was a good job I had a cushion as I would remain win less going into the final fixture.

Aston Villa are unreal in my Master League. Agbonlahor scored the single goal in a boring match. I am a bit annoyed with my first season. I only won 12 games which is poor. I didn’t create enough chances and when I did my strikers let me down or I hit the post. It’s over now and time to move on. I am planning my next season already. I have very little money so a few players could go. Season 2 is right around the corner, check back Saturday to find out how I got on. Also check the video to see who won the golden boot in the Premier League. Fair tight at the top wasn’t it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KvjrupgKAA

Quick update on my ML career as I have loads of matches played and don’t want to fall too far behind as it might lose some drama! I want to post as I am playing so I’ll be giving a rundown on matches 20-29 and then my next post will bring a live game or two, probably the final fixtures. Let’s get cracking.

THE DEBUT OF STEIN

Fixture 20 saw me play a fellow struggling team, QPR. Fortunately, they were no match for me, thanks partly to my Irish monster Stein. He dominated midfield for me. I don’t know why he plays so well for me but he seems to never let me down. He is MY fantasy player, you know, the one player that every PES player has a soft spot for. Some people loved Palmieri, some like Ettori. I’m a Stein man. So 3 more points on the board, Santon and Demba Ba scoring the crucial goals. Demba is playing like a tank for me. Everything goes through him but I am still not scoring enough.My play style has become so poor that I struggle to create a chance in most games. If I do I usually score so I am hoping Vagner Love can instill some much needed firepower into my attack. I was feeling good and hoped to go on a bit of a win streak. Imagine my annoyance when Stein gets injured for 12 weeks!

The Challenge

My main problem so far has not been the AI, the scripting or shooting, I love all of that,mostly, my main problem has been me. I am playing so poorly. My online style of play is being ripped apart and trampled on by the superstar AI. I look for through balls that are just not open and try to outplay the AI. I need to slow down and was reminded of this quite forcefully when I fell to both Norwich and Stoke. It is my own fault and I blame nobody but myself but damn, it is frustrating as hell when you lose a match by your own failures. A top 10 finish seems impossible now, especially as I followed up those two losses with a disappointing draw with Everton. I did get back to winning ways against Bolton with Demba Ba on the mark and the enigma that is Ben Arfa scoring a cracker.

I don’t regret picking Newcastle over Everton, but they have a serious squad. Fellaini is a definite target later on in my career. He is a massive force in midfield and exactly what I need, Stein can only work miracles for so long!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcBL8bQn0Dc&list=UUltNYCqJL1NEKa4xzelhKWQ&index=1&feature=plcp

Man City Are Scary!

Even though I beat Wolves (an own goal granting me the spoils) Chelsea swatted me away without breaking a sweat. I lost 3-0. Then I grew a bit depressed as Man City reminded me of just how far away I am from being a top side. I held them for an hour but the scoreline hid the truth to be honest. I was destroyed. They are so good at playing to their strengths. I advise anyone who says PES teams all play the same, try and beat Man City on superstar.

After 27 games, I rest on 37 points. I had only conceded 21 goals which I was proud of, but I am ashamed of my goals scored. A shocking figure. Being in 10th is not so bad but I need to start getting consistent. I am up and down like a yo-yo. I only have 9 wins which is poor.

My mood brightened though, when Ben Arfa nearly burst the ball as it glided into the net, a cracking finish against a decent Sunderland outfit. I have scored some stunning strikes and this might even beat Leon Best’s in my last vid. My 10th win of the season  might have belonged to Ben Arfa but I fell again to a spirited Fulham side in fixture 29. The goal was poor but I would of taking it. I would take anything at this stage.

Swansea then held me to a scoreless boring draw. With only 8 matches remaining, it’s squeeky bum time now!

I am only winning half my matches and drawing most of them. If I don’t start scoring soon, I fear next season will prove even more difficult. I have 8 games left to secure a top ten finish, my personal goal of the season. Here’s hoping

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siayyXdGbfQ

]]> http://www.pesgaming.com/blog/pes-2012-news/1689/ml-adventure-chapter-7-demba-ba-ba-beast/feed/ 10 http://www.pesgaming.com/blog/articles/1682/ml-adventure-chapter-6-best-pes-yet/ http://www.pesgaming.com/blog/articles/1682/ml-adventure-chapter-6-best-pes-yet/#comments Thu, 15 Mar 2012 20:11:48 +0000 Barry http://www.pesgaming.com/blog/?p=1682 read more]]> So my first season was proving to be more of a task than I expected. I just couldn’t score. My build up play is non existent and I have found myself getting a small bit frustrated, engaging in frantic battles with teams that are just too good for me at this juncture. Imagine what a real life manager of a similar team in the Premier League feels like!?

It seems the game gets a lot of criticism, more specifically the AI. I understand people saying the dribbling needs tweaking and scripting needs to be toned down. I get that and it can be annoying the odd time. So even with my lack of goals and with practically no exciting drama in the league, why am I still loving PES ML? After 5 months of play, I am going on record. PES 2012 is the best PES I have played. And maybe my favourite yet.

MAD?

Madness you say? Maybe, but it’s true. There is so much to love about this year’s offering. The depth of the tactics, player individuality and even the defending which I have become a master at. This praise is coming from a guy who racked up 700+ hours on PES 2010! Yes that’s correct. But in my defense, I had taken a year out of college to play football professionally so I had loads of free time.

Some of my greatest memories of PES include the adventures of my little Irish monster, Mini Roy Keane Stein. I remember  in PES 2010, the day he stood beaming as he was crowned world footballer of the year. I remember the exploits of his midfield partner and another PES hero, Tolchotrzyn who I had form the age of 16 to 40. I also remember my 76 goal record in one season with my superb regen Inzaghi! So it was always going to take something huge to sway me to say another ML would top those experiences.

PES 2012 is delivering and delivering big. Forget the cut scenes, those will be gone next year. Finally I have a proper Master League with the best game play of the current gen. My faith in Konami is at an all time high. I think the main reason for it is the shooting. I have finally mastered it. It has taken me about 200+ hours of play but now I see PES 2012 in a brighter light. I have always said I am an average player but currently I sit on 701 points in my MLO. But online is a different game altogether. The game can be only be played with speed,speed and more speed. But offline PES 2012 is gaming gold when played the way football should be played. I have improved my game and matured my style and started playing some quality stuff, using my team properly to great effect.

Match 17 was a learning process for my new play style and I didn’t do well. Tottenham are a classy side and played me off the park. Krancjar scored a beauty too.

West Brom were up next. All I will say is wow. What a cracker. My most exciting game yet. 3-2 it finished. I know my goals weren’t the best but I don’t care! It was a win. A last minute goal that brought sheer ecstasy. Demba Ba is stepping up to the plate and Ben Arfa has amazing feet. I need a solid CMF though. Don’t worry, I have my eye on a certain Irish legend. It’s time.

Last but certainly not least, Aston Villa. Before the match, I was boosted by the return of my injured striker Leon Best(out since 2nd game) who arrived into the dressing room quoting a certain white wizard; I come back back to you now, at the turn of the tide. And he certainly brought some magic with him!!!

His goal is my favourite goal so far in this year’s ML. Everything about it is PES-perfect. Please watch it and tell me it is not the sweetest goal ever! Ok, maybe I’m exaggerating but the previous build up play was lovely and I am playing co-op which made it even better.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHWQe2PJups&list=UUltNYCqJL1NEKa4xzelhKWQ&index=1&feature=plcp

So heading into the January transfer market sees me sitting in 11th with 26 points. I can only get better and I can’t wait for my next few games. I bought Park Chu Young and Vagner Love for a bit of firepower and two midfielders, Poli a 21 year old pass master and my old friend, Stein. It’s going to get interesting!

For all it’s problems that special PES feeling is back running through my veins and I love it. I hope real football fans appreciate the hidden depth of PES 2012. It’s a pity because it’s such a stellar offering from Konami. But because of the immense learning curve and depth and the lure of so many other excellent games on the market, most people will never see it. And its because of this that it will probably go down as one of the most underrated classics of the gaming year…

What’s Up lads,

I thought I would post a regular update every few days in which I pick a player who I think should be in your team for the coming week. I will try to pick lesser known guys and players who are so good for their price.

My picks will be players who will be in good form, either green or orange and going up. This player will fit into any team,  either as a solid first choice pick or decent backup. His role will probably depend on your financial situation. My team is worth 250 million but I still utilise most of them as squad members. While they might not do well in your team, trust me they are worth a shot. As always lets me know if you have any suggestions in the comments. Also let me know if you want two picks a week. I might do a bargain player (1-6 million) and a decent player (7-12 million.) So let me know, as for this post I am picking one. ( 1-10 million)

Today’s Pick

BERIA: CB: 10 Million

You can’t go wrong with this brilliant CB. While not the most defensive player and a bit pricey for some, he is a monster. He’s just hitting orange now so he is a solid 20 match investment. Look at the below stats with the highlights being 89 Top Speed and 83 Body Balance. He has no problem with any stiker except the elites. Maybe not the most unknown player as a good few people have him but for those looking for a solid CB, look no further. Buy him now!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfgS4gRS_Hk

So fixture 12 was against the mighty Arsenal. Like real life, Arsenal can be brilliant and poor in PES. Thankgod, today it was a lacklustre side that showed up and I held on for a terribly boring draw.

Wigan was a similar game. The AI just closed me down every time I tried something. I think I had only 1 or 2 highlights which says it all. I could of won it in the last minute though!

My next match was against the undefeated Man United. Ferguson would be raging because it looked like they had got full points. But Demba Beast had other plans and pipped one right at the death to my wild celebrations. The draws were getting to me now. I mean, the AI just seemed to know my movement every game but I would prevail eventually.

Blackburn were next on the agenda. A typical tight game until the last 15 minutes. Demba Ba was the hero again. I have found my sweet spot with his style of play and know when to use his pace and strength. PES has the indivduality of most players to a tee and when it plays well it really does shine through. My first win in 5 games. I can all but kiss away a top 10 finish.

Liverpool destroyed me in my next fixture. Mr. Controversy himself, Luis Suaraz the architect to by downfall. It finished 2-0 but should of been more. I was appalling and had only 1 chance. I think the Pool are top of the league. How King Kenny wishes that was so in the real!

Anyway, more up soon.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfgS4gRS_Hk

Today’s post is going to be a little different. Let me know if you want more of these or do you want me to stick primarily to PES…

If you are like me, football is probably a big part of your life. I love to play and watch but I also love to debate real world football topics. I love a good argument. The trouble is, most sites are littered with either abuse and non logical comments or trolls. Maybe here, we can argue with real fans without the bullshit. Anyway, here we go!

THE BEST PLAYER IN THE WORLD

The real debate today currently rages all over the world of football. Cristiano Ronaldo Versus Lionel Messi. Who is better? Did Messi deserve his third Ballon d’Or? Simply, who is the best player in the world?

It is hard to know isn’t it? Everyone and their dog has an opinion. Me? If I had to buy one of them to win me a league, I know who I would pick. But let’s see what you think first.

There is no doubting Messi and Ronaldo are both special players with different styles. Messi is the best dribbler in the game. His movement, pace and decision making are unparalleled. His individual stats are phenomenal. He touches the ball in every attack. He is the poster boy of this decades greatest team.

Ronaldo is of similar pedigree. He has been excellent in the last 3-4 seasons. His performances at Manchester United, breaking countless records along the way, helped them win the double. His first season at Real Madrid might have started slowly but he still scored some great goals. Now that he has settled in, his form continues to strike fear into every team. Real Madrid are 10 points clear of Barcelona this year in La Liga. Ronaldo oozes class. He is the complete all round player. He has blistering pace, a thunder bolt of a shot and is good in the air. Scarily, he is improving every year.

As of now Messi sits on 28 goals in La Liga while Ronaldo has 30 goals.Amazing achievements for both players. However, the one big argument I throw into a discussion is this.  Look at the team Messi has around him. Xavi, Fabregas and Iniesta are the best midfielders in the world. Their sole purpose is to create for Messi. With Real Madrid, Alonso and Ozil are brilliant players but nowhere near that class. If Messi went to Man City without Xavi or Iniesta, would he be the same player? Ronaldo is proven in that area with his time at Man U. Or how about this. If Messi was playing for Madrid and Ronaldo for Barcelona, would they be the same players? It is the 1 cristicsm of Messi. All the great players of world football throughout the years have achieved success at different clubs. Zidane, Figo, Ronaldo, etc. Could Messi be the same player no matter where he goes??

Let me know and I will weigh in with my thoughts soon!

I remember reading about twenty reviews, all showering it with praise. And after eventually waiting for what felt like a lifetime, on release day, I skipped school with my cousin and played 1 v 1′s for about 12 hours straight. PES 4 was a sublime game of football.

Now 8 years on, it’s a different story altogether. FIFA is the new king in town, seemingly having kept PES from it’s Iron throne for the last 3 years. Is there any way back or should Konami pack it in as so many people have encouraged?

I reckon Konami would be crazy to give up for the simple reason they are not miles away from reclaiming the No.1 spot. Does it need a yearly release or a patch every 6 months for 18 months and rebuild PES from the ground up though?

I think in order to maintain a fan base it does need a yearly release. While I would love to see what the Konami team could conjure up with double or triple development time, PES 2012 is too good. Ok, so it has a few issues, but what game doesn’t? I could rip holes in any game on any console. (except Shenmue=best game ever!)

In my opinion PES is back. Back on the right track anyway. PES 2012 is a cracking game albeit with a few issues. Some big, some small. But imagine this…

You turn on your console tomorrow morning to be greeted by “Update Available”. After installing, you load up the game proper to see a list of implemented upgrades:

• Shooting is more powerful.
•  New animations.
• Speed reduced by 5-10% (walcott down from 95 speed to 90 etc…)
• Revised MLO divisons.
• MLO Salary Cap
• MLO/online similar skill/teams level match rooms
• Passing locked at 1 for all modes.

Now imagine how different PES 2012 would be.

THE KING IS BACK.

Final words

PES 2012 has sold around 3 million copies worldwide. FIFA 12 is around 10 million. I don’t think many people understand the true sales because of rubbish being spouted by EA that FIFA outsold PES 25-1 or something crazy like that. Konami need to involve the european community. Get people talking again. Ask what we want and implement it. We know what we want so invite our opinions. True gamers buy the best and PES 2013 can reclaim the throne, with a little help from the community.

Let me know your thoughts below. Can’t wait to hear you replies.

PES 2012 is receiving it’s latest update on March 6th, which will be accessed via the in game data downloaded, found in the Extra Content section of the game. Along with the latest transfers (January Transfer Window), there are also a few new kits, pairs of boots and footballs for the loyal PES fan to get excited about.

The full press release can be found below

KONAMI details latest PES 2012 DLC

January transfers and much more updated

Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH today released details of the latest free DLC for PES 2012, which will be released on March 6th for PS3, Xbox 360 and PC versions.

The download brings all team rosters up to date, and makes all transfers that took part within the January transfer window. The update also updates the kits of the Spanish, German and Japanese national sides, and adds eight new boot styles from adidas and Nike, and the new adidas Finale Munich ball  that will be used in this year’s UEFA Champions League final.

 

VIDS!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saiAxBZZiV0&feature=plcp&context=C34a9b65UDOEgsToPDskJvsgCwSq6IONWKJE_czuWC

Crystal Palace dumped me out on my arrogant backside. I took them for granted and paid the price. I wanted a good run in the cup because my chances of a top 8 finish are slim. When PES plays well, it is a smashing game of football. The game just seems to flow. Am I the only one who likes the ridiculous AI pressure?  I know it can be frustrating but it sure is a challenge!

Meanwhile back in the league…

Man City destroyed me, led by a near untouchable Tevez. Ballotelli and Dzeko scored the goals with tap ins. Man City look unstoppable. I can’t ever see myself beating them on superstar level. I would be very surprised if they don’t win 1 or 2 of the major trophies this year.

It seemed my initial great start to the league was well and truly over, or at least on a semi permanent hiatus. Sunderland, led by their newly signed striker Nicholas Bendter, beat me by one goal. A stunning strike from the big Dane.

I was spiralling downwards, 10 games played and in 10th place with 13 points. I needed a win against Swansea. The super AI were in full force but I had a few chances. I should of scored with Leon Best, who had hit a purple patch, but was now struggling, much like myself. Another draw. I slipped to 11th and I had Arsenal next.

Fortunately, Arsenal seemed to be in a similar position. The game ended 0-0. These draws are killing me. Defensively, I am rock solid. I havn’t conceded in a few games but what iss worrying me is my inability to score. I need to start scoring or my dreams of finishing in a Europa League spot for the season would soon start to fade away.

Wigan played out much like my last 5 games. A chance for me at the end saw me ruled offside. A harsh call in my opinion. The dreaded 0-0 again. I was getting sick of it now. I would have to splurge on a decent striker in the January transfer market. Even if it meant going into debt for a few months.

That’s it for today’s post lads. Up next I have Man U, which was a cracking game. Will one of my strikers find their shooting boots? Time will tell.

Also, Blackburn, Liverpool and QPR are on the calender as well as my first January Transfers which sees an absolute legend welcomed to Tyneside!

Links are live!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saiAxBZZiV0&feature=plcp&context=C34a9b65UDOEgsToPDskJvsgCwSq6IONWKJE_czuWC