FIFA 08 (Nintendo DS)

The greatest battle of the new football season is not between any real world club but between the virtual giants of FIFA and Pro Evolution Soccer. Konami’s game has always been the favourite but last year FIFA closed the gap to such a degree that the title race has never been closer. This year’s FIFA uses a completely new game engine, for the first time built specifically for the next gen consoles. But improved graphics and animation are only the half of it, with just as much focus going on the artificial intelligence thanks to the new "35 point decision engine". What this basically means is that every player on the pitch is fully aware of those around him and constantly thinking about tactics and position when not under your control.

Other changes include better modelled physics for taking a shot on goal, which take into account everything from air pressure to the angle of your foot. You’re also able to create your own special moves to replicate every possible trick from real life. There are also new game modes including Be A Pro which challenges you to play the role of a single player through a whole season or career. On top of this there are revamped online leagues to play a virtual season in the Premier League, Bundesliga, French League or Mexican 1st Division against real opponents. With 620 licensed teams, 30 offline leagues and 15,000 players as well FIFA might just have made enough new signings this year to put it over the top.

Get closer to the action than ever before by mastering the skills required to play like a real professional soccer player in FIFA 08
From the moment you step on the pitch, FIFA Soccer 08 challenges you to think and react like a real soccer player by giving you complete control over all of the action. Control the goalkeeper in one-on-one situations to deny the striker yourself, position the goalie exactly where you want on corners, and take complete control to make the save on free kicks. Its now all up to you!

Use the stylus and touch pad for ultimate control on free kicks and penalty kicks. Run up and strike the ball, curling a shot around the wall and into the goal. In defence, take control of your goalie and command the wall at the most crucial times. Master your nerves and perfect your shot on penalty kicks to win glory for your club in a new Penalty Shoot-Out mode.

This year it is more strategic to break down the opposition than ever before with new defensive and positioning logic that ensures players are in the right place at the right time, constantly considering all threats and opportunities.

Intelligently manage your club by preparing for each specific opponent using new custom formations. Design your own unique strategy to create the perfect formation and tactics. Assign roles and move players to the exact position in relation to teammates to undermine the opposition.

In addition, FIFA 08 is dramatically more real and exhilarating with the inclusion of 30 official leagues and more than 14,000 players all accurately re-created.