Great New Soccer Game

I recently went out to purchase a soccer game for my PS2. I wasn't sure what to choose from, being that Winning Eleven 6 and this game from 989 were both released recently and were seemingly the newest around. Both were priced at 39.99 at my local Best Buy so there was no price differential between the two. At first I had my heart set on Winning 11, because I am generally not all so satisfied with many of 989's efforts but I figured I'd ask the sales associate if he knew anything about the two games. He told me that he had played them both and while both were good, that this game from 989 stood out as superior. I was a bit surprised, but decided to trust him and go with World Tour Soccer 2003. I am glad I did.

The main thing that is striking about this game is its depth. There are literally hundreds of national (US) teams to choose from as well as the club teams from all over the world. Of course seasons and even multiple seasons can be played. It would literally take a year to play seasons with all the teams available. You can set up your own competitions as well with the teams of your choice and of course, with most sports games, the multiplayer aspect is enjoyable. The fact is that being that I have no roommates I am way better than all the first time players I have faced so far which detracts from the challenge. The great thing is that although the game certainly takes some learning to beat even the easiest levels is that the computer opponents are a challenge. Currently I am playing a world class level season (the 3rd of 4 levels) and I must say the computer presents staunch opposition. I think this is great because many sports games become too easy too fast and this is not the case here.

The best mode of the game in my opinion, is the school league competition. This is like the franchise mode of most sports games and lets the player work his way from a school league team to, after multiple seasons, a pro league schedule. Being that the computer A.I. is good, this isn't always easy.

The sound for the game is just average. they play the same song over and over again which does get a bit old. The commentary is done is 7 languages which is a nice feature for international players, but it does get a bit repetitive.

The graphics are above average. Although the in play field view is not spectacular, it is decent and the replays and close ups are grand. 989 makes the players look just as they do in real life and details are taken into account. Clint Mathis has his mo-hawk and Romario even has his trademark hairdo from the World Cup.

As for gameplay, it is comprehensive and enjoyable. All the buttons on the PS2 are used and although it gets difficult to do advanced manuevers, almost all the moves of real soccer are used. The controls are fairly easy to master and the game moves at a normal pace.

Another thing I like about this game is the fact that it is realistic to the sport. The scores of the games are 2-1, 1-1, 3-2, etc. not 14-11, 15-13, etc. I have noticed that some games (especially with soccer and hockey) make it far too easy to score and be scored upon. While some gamers might like the high scores, I for one am happy with the realism.

Overall, this is a fine soccer game. If you love the sport as I do, then this game is a must have. Also, if you are just a sports fan, this is probably a good pick-up. Have fun!