PES 2013 – It is what it is.
It’s been a simple message overall from Konami. PES 2013 is a game that focuses all it’s efforts on the pitch, without blowing anyone anyway while doing it. The question is, is that enough?
After sampling the game a number of times already, and we’re only in June, we go through the pros and cons of this years upcoming game, and see if it’s enough.
Graphics and animation
Same look, same camera angles, same textures etc, it’s the same. With the focus on the gameplay, many things have been left untouched. While gameplay is the priority, many users have been left disappointed with the fact the game is exactly the same as PES 2012 in terms of visuals. Is this good enough?
Well, no, not really. But it’s a sign of where Konami are right now, and any questions asking why it hasn’t changed are met with answers talking about next year. It’s clear the engine is at its maximum, and while it’s the real reason, it only amplifies the issues Konami have faced this generation.
Saying that, added variety in conducting certain movements does quell complete disarray. More variety in passing and shooting animations, while adding an abundance of crossing animations means it looks much more smoother than last year. Add in Player ID, and it becomes visually appeasing. The problem here however is that the game continues to drop quality when in gameplay cam, so much of the magic is lost.
With promises of a change to the contrast levels, it remains to be seen if Konami can make this game look better overall before launch.
Goalkeepers
Reworked? Right now, I don’t think so. They are reworked in AI for sure, more intelligence and aggressive when dealing with crosses and loose balls. The ability to distribute the ball quickly and accurately is a nice inclusion, as well being able to move them anywhere around the box when in possession. The issue then is simply in movement, and the same feeling of them looking unnatural when making saves remain.
It’s not an issue itself, especially if Konami had remained as truthful about them as they have with other elements. Promises of improving them wholesale were ill advised, and something that is bound to attract negativity in the future.
Game Modes
Not bad at all, if I’m honest. Improvements to Master League by adding Copa Libertadores, while changing the transfer process to make it much more transparent has me excited, as well as a clear career path in Become A Legend shows it’s not just the gameplay that has seen the focus. Add in a new rankings mode to online, as well as salary caps to Master League Online, shows people just might be playing online with some satisfaction – something PES 2012 took away.
Edit mode however looks like it will be unchanged, so the same BLES issues, as well as limited sharing facilities remain. Lets hope we have something new, as it still is missing key features to appease the creative crowd.
Stats
Untouched. The same as PES 2012, and while some abilities have been renamed, they do the same thing. It’s a concern, but perhaps to be expected. My only concern here comes from certain abilities simply needing stats. For example, I’ve found that certain players, like Pepe, are better at tackling than others, but how is this achieved? With no tackling stat, I fear it will be lost in something unrelated, making it difficult to see who is better at it than others.
Summary
So is gameplay enough? Of course it is, no question. We’ve harped on about the realistic pace, the lack of scripted passes and outcomes, the wonderful shooting elements and fantastic first touch control. These elements show us that the game is doing everything right on the pitch where it matters. But as a package, as an overall product, my concerns remain right up until launch.
The single minded focus will be put up for discussion once you all get your hands on the game late July when the first demo hits. It will be compelling to see just what you make of it, as while I hope you all see the good, you are coming in with full understanding of what to expect.
With all that being said, it’s clear to everyone here at WENB that much of the focus on gameplay has been publicly vetted with promise of a new experience next year. Because of this, expect the next podcast, coming Wednesday evening, to be fully focused on PES 2014 and what it will bring. A one off, and something to keep in memory, as we won’t be discussing the future until after PES 2013 is released.
Stay tuned for a PES 2013 Q&A at the start of the week, where we answer all your questions.
