EA Sports has recently released FIFA 10 in Europe while the American version is set to be released on Tuesday, October 20, 2009. I recently received my review copy from EA and have played it for several hours. For those who played FIFA 09, the newest version is very similiar. Here’s the full review of the USA version of FIFA 10 (for the Playstation 3). The UK version if basically the same game except for a different cover.

FIFA 10 Soccer Review – Thursday, October 14, 2009

FIFA 09 was a solid video game that most fans and critics viewed as the best soccer/football video game. FIFA 10 continues the progress made by FIFA 09 and is even a bit better. While the game is not perfect, it’s still one of the best soccer experiences ever in a video game.

Graphics – 9/10

First, the graphics in FIFA 10 have been improved and make for a great looking game. Players react and move  as realistic as they’ve ever had in the FIFA series. This game is best with on high definition in which it performs beautifully and looks spectacular. Not many complaints in the graphics for FIFA 10.

Commentary/Audio – 8/10

Martin Tyler and Andy Gray return for the English language commentary of FIFA 10. As usual, they provide terrific commentary but it contains some of the same sounds from last season. Also, at times the duo are full of cliches but they still provide a nice atmosphere to the game. Tyler is probably the best soccer/football English language commentator that can make almost any match interesting, even if its a 0-0 snoozefest. Gray is a decent commentator but at times his comments can get a bit annoying.

The soundtrack for FIFA 10 is again one a great mix of genres. Some might not like some of the songs but EA Sports does a good job of finding diverse artists that fit the game. There 34 songs in the soundtrack.

Gameplay – 9/10

The gameplay has not changed much from FIFA 09 which is not a bad thing. It’s very similar with a few changes and improvements. The 360 dribbling makes it more realistic. For example, when you’re controlling Lionel Messi with the ball and want to run at a defender or try to beat them 1-1, the dribbling makes it easier and less robotic. It definitely is the advantage to the offenses. The ability to create set pieces is another welcomed addition that adds to a very deep gameplay. The old glitches of scoring from midfield off the kick-off are gone and the goalkeepers make very few stupid mistakes. This isn’t to say the gameplay is perfect but its a solid representation of the beautiful game.

The virtual pro mode with the ability to upload your game face makes for a personalized experience. It’s another way EA Sports is bringing players closer to the game. Overall, there are lots of features and a mix of offline and online modes that give this game unlimited replay value.

There are a few nice touches including better refereeing in regards to letting the advantage play continue after fouls and quick restarts after fouls. The default camera angle for free kick is another small but nice change. These are just a few but you can tell the effort and nuance that EA has gone into to make the small improvements that make the difference even if they aren’t that noticable.

Online/Multiplayer – 9/10

The online is similar to FIFA 09 but with some improvements and a few more options. It’s still in my opinion the best part of the match. At times, online matches can contain some lag but in my experience its generally runs very smooth. The ability to play 10 on 10 is still there and use your virtual pro in matches. The FIFA Interactive World Cup is back along with the FIFA Pro Club Championship where you can create your own club (using your virtual pro).

Overall – 9/10

If you like FIFA 09, then you will enjoy FIFA 10. It is in many ways the same game but a step above. It’s been improved and molded into one of the best soccer/football experiences ever on a video game. It looks great, plays fantastic, and will provide hours of entertainment for fans of the beautiful game. Is it perfect? Of course not and there are some annoying things here and there but its hard to find a video game without at least a few of these. This review is just my opinion and thoughts after playing for several hours. If you aren’t sure if you want the game, I suggest renting or downloading the demo.

FIFA 10 is a must for those who love this sport and the amount of options (Be A Pro, Virtual Pro, Online) make another hit from EA Sports. There will be those that can complain about the game and find every little flaw. The truth is that EA Sports has put in the work to show they are taking back the genre of soccer/football video games from PES. FIFA 09 was step one and FIFA 10 is the confirmation. Let’s only hope that EA will not get lazy and continued to work hard so that FIFA 11 is even better, but for now pick up a copy of FIFA 10 and enjoy.