2006 FIFA World Cup (Xbox)

• Platform:   Xbox
• PEGI Rating: Ages 3 and Over
• Media: Video Game

The lowdown:
. In previous years, FIFA Word Cup games have meant little more than a cut down version of the existing FIFA game, however this version features not just the 32 teams from the finals but the chance to play as any of the other 95 countries from the qualifying rounds. There’s even the option to replay historic World Cups – although only a handful of older players are included. In terms of gameplay things have been noticeably speeded up and there’s even an alternative control system that exactly mimics rival Pro Evolution Soccer. PES fans will still be suspicious but this really is the best FIFA yet.

Most exciting moment:
Reliving the glory of 1966 with the current England team and then going on to do the same thing in this year’s Cup as well!

Since you ask:
Many of the England team, including Wayne Rooney, claim to be video games fans and many have mentioned playing the FIFA games between real matches.

The bottom line:
A genuine improvement on FIFA 06 with the usual top notch EA presentation.
Harrison Dent

Manufacturer's Description
EA Sports celebrates the world's largest sporting event with the only official and exclusive licensed videogame for the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany.

2006 FIFA World Cup perfectly captures the emotion and passion of the world's fiercest national rivalries by giving users the opportunity to play with their heroes and the chance to win the FIFA World Cup. Play as your home nation and control your favourite players as you battle from qualification right through to a virtual re-creation of the final tournament in Germany.

EA Sports has brought to life close to 100 superstars by emulating the real-life abilities of the world's most recognizable players. Signature moves, playing styles and flair moves have all been authentically captured in this game. Gameplay advancements in passing and shooting, including improved penalty kicks, make this the most realistic and playable soccer game yet.

2006 FIFA World Cup introduces a new game mode called Global Challenge that will test even the most hardcore gamer. Global Challenge re-creates 40 classic moments in FIFA World Cup history for fans to tackle. Compare your results with history and measure yourself against the world's best.

Take control of one of 127 national teams and play against friends in up to eight-way multiplayer matches. Track your results in The Lounge to create your own rankings and earn rewards.

As the only officially licensed videogame of 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany, EA SPORTS has included a plethora of in-game unlockable content such as legendary players and exclusive apparel that will make this game a coveted collectable for soccer fans. Play with some of the game's greatest legends and outfit your squad in exclusive team apparel

• PC & Video Games > Games > Sports > Football