One of three football games that millions of people around the world mark religiously in their calendar, this year’s PES 2017 release typically garnered great excitement.

Last year’s bulked out edition that threw in Arabian Gulf League clubs and an expanded AFC Champions League competition was a real treat and this year, the gameplay has taken it up a notch.

As with any release, the game takes a bit of getting used to but there is plenty to make sure you stick it out and the rewards you reap are well worth it.

First of all, we have to start with the new “Real Touch” technology which adds an entirely different dimension to the game.

Taking into consideration a player’s attributes and combining it with the game’s expanded and improved ball physics, the way each player in the game controls a pass varies with incredible realism.

At first it can feel a little stifled but once you master the movement of the ball and how best to react to it depending on player and circumstance, it is a pure joy.

The “Precise Pass” aspect has the greatest bearing on the new first-touch system. Making this game’s passing system a visual masterpiece and further adding depth to the incredible realism that PES boasts.

Enhanced animation, the ability to change shape, defensive and team instructions on a whim are all nice additions but it is the added realism that makes it stand out.

Highlighting this is the new “Adaptive AI” which reacts to your style of play as the match unfolds.

Able to respond to your lines of attack, touchline instructions and even your weaknesses, the computer has never been more of a potent threat.

It’s fair to say that the past few years has seen a huge resurgence in the PES series and, here, Konami has struck gold with its finest game in years.

We rate it: 9/10 – You will not regret buying this unless you value your free time…
Price: Vary according to store but from Dhs139
Where to Buy: All major video game retailers across the UAE