Since almost forever Pro Evo has been the media darling of the videogame world, lavished with more and more acclaim every time a new iteration is released. But by receiving more praise than punishment its developer seems never to have felt the need to correct the obvious flaws inherent in the game. The FIFA franchise, however, has had more mud slung at it than a Land Rover Rhino, enabling its team to pin-point the faults, listen to criticism and keep improving until we’ve reached the point where EA has delivered a game that will not only be challenging for the title but has an excellent shout at snatching it.

When you first boot the game up you might not notice too much of a difference; the personalized menu screens are a nice touch and the player models look to have received a little more attention from the virtual artist’s brush, but on the whole it’s consistent with previous versions. In fact, not until the whistle blows are you made aware that almost every aspect of FIFA 07 has been enhanced. Still managing to retain its fast-moving arcadey feel this is the most realistic representation of football that the franchise has ever offered, where quick feet and plenty of passing moves are a must if you want to penetrate the computer’s newly reinforced back line. This leads to a much more open game, with ball possession changing more frequently, demanding that you adopt a more tactical approach. The oft condemned ball physics are improving and the passing is more dependent on the position of your body and the intended recipient. Player movement and opponent AI is very sharp making it more of a challenge to score.

Not that we’re suggesting that hitting the onion bag is difficult, because it isn’t; thanks to a defence-dividing lofted through-ball and the new ‘finesse’ finish you’re still guaranteed some high scoring games, but it’s how you achieve them that somehow feels more satisfying. As always, the run of play is much more weighted towards attacking, so at times defending can be a frustrating affair owing mainly to some inept AI defending and goal keepers that never venture more than a few yards off their line. Small quibbles aside FIFA 07 is a real crowd-pleaser in terms of play modes and options. As well as standard exhibitions and leagues there are exclusive mini-games, a challenge mode and a management sim which is engaging if a little shallow.

An undoubted improvement on last year’s offering, FIFA 07 has managed to dispense with the Hollywood style of play so often associated with the series and produced a game that’s both casual and captivating. If EA can iron out the minor issues evident in this game then next season it could convert a franchise that’s proving more than match fit into a world beater.

Keith Hennessey