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FIFA Soccer
The new physics engine could be a huge leap forward for EA Sports' already stellar footie game.
After EA Canada producer David Rutter recapped the new features that we've previously reported, I jumped on the sticks myself to see just how revolutionary the new controls can be. Considering this is a genre where innovation is often subtle, I was rather taken aback by how differently (and better) FIFA 12 played than its predecessors. Here are quick impressions I gathered from a quick Aresenal vs. Chelsea match on a pre-alpha build of the game.
Say Goodbye To Clipping
Nothing is more frustrating for sports gamers than watching the animated mess of players arms clipping through defenders during a routine entanglement. Cringe-worthy moments like these rob the games of their sense of realism and remind us just how far a sports simulations have to go before they capture the true physicality and unpredictability of competition. FIFA 12's new player impact engine is EA's attempt to eliminate these problems. In my match I witnessed natural knee-on-knee collisions, forceful tackles with realistic outcomes, and physical on-ball defending encounters determined by a combination of size, strength, and skill. The variation of these animations was impressive, and when the game comes out I wouldn't be surprised to see it become the new benchmark for sports animation systems.
Star Players Matter More Than Ever
In previous FIFA games, the players had a high fidelity degree of motion, but they looked foolish when changing directions repeatedly because they always kicked the ball too far in front of themselves. FIFA's new precision dribbling mechanics give you more control than ever before in tight spaces, eliminating this hassle by keeping the ball much closer to your player. With skilled possession players like Lionel Messi, players will be able to toy with lesser defenders by using their body to shield the ball from defenders and stringing together quick dribbling moves that leave them eating grass.
A Game of Chance
EA Canada completely revamped the defending in FIFA 12, eliminating the do-it-all defend button that magically magnetized your back to his mark. What's the fun in having the game do the defending for you? The new system still helps you maintain proper positioning, but it requires you to push the tackle button when you want to go for the ball, which is a huge risk/reward decision. If you're facing a creative and talented dribbler, he could quickly change directions when you make your move and leave your defender well out of position.
Playing The Angles
During my short time with the game, I found it much easier to patrol the passing lanes while defending. Several of my players demonstrated the necessary awareness to intercept or deflect passes, and I even had a taller midfielder redirect a pass by leaping to head the ball away from its intended target. These opportunistic moves opened up the field of play in a way I rarely experienced in FIFA 11, giving my team organic odd-man rushes and quick scoring opportunities.
Support Your Club
The EA Sports Football Club wasn't a part of the gameplay demo, but this new allegiance system will be a part of every game you play. Like NCAA Football's Season Showdown feature, once you select a club to support everything you do in FIFA 12 earns your team points in a worldwide competition for bragging rights. Leaderboards keep track of which teams have the most dedicated fans, the front end will surface news for your favorite team, and teams will be promoted and relegated in the tables as they gain or lose fan support.
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