Electronic Arts shows no sign of slowing, as the publishing and game development giant has released another sports hit earlier this month in “FIFA 11.” Hot off the launch of “NHL 11,” EA Sports makes another big statement with the newest incarnation of the hailed soccer franchise, a sport that captivates the entire world.

The FIFA franchise from EA is a long time fan favorite, and despite soccer having low popularity in the US compared to the rest of the world, the gaming series bucks this trend, and has a huge following here in the states, as well as overseas. This year’s version, while not as revolutionary as “FIFA 10,” is another solid, exciting outing for fans of one of the history’s oldest and most respected sports.

The resources that EA Sports has to spend on the FIFA games are always astronomical due to the popularity, and this year it shows once again in the presentation. Menus are slick, sounds and music fitting, and perhaps most importantly, the famous commentary players know and love is top notch as always. The menu options are a bit minimalistic, but that has just as much to do with the gameplay as it does design choice. There’s not much to take away from here; it is a good looking, solid package.

The franchise’s strength, however, never rested on the presentation. The series’ gameplay was always the main factor in its success, and this outing offers the same addicting, fun play gamers have come to expect. “FIFA 10” introduced the 360 degree dribbling style that revolutionized soccer games as gamers knew them, and “FIFA 11,” while not providing yet another major change, improves the working formula. After a previous version implements a huge game changing mechanic, EA’s new staple seems to be creating a greater sense of realism in their games, and they have done that here.

The ball bounces and deflects with a certain feel to it, in a more realistic, almost visceral way. It’s something one has to try to feel when comparing it to previous entries in the franchise, but it’s definitely there. Passing has become more difficult as a result, but in a positive way. You cannot simply one-touch pass the ball across the field; if your player is off balance or facing the wrong direction when trying to make a pass, his accuracy will be greatly affected. Playing as the goalkeeper is also a new addition, and while interesting, is more of a novelty than anything else, as soccer is not a high shot-count game, and you will spend more of the game watching your team play than anything else.

The game’s visuals are improved, and in a way very similar to EA’s improvements to the NHL series in that the players look more like their real-life counterparts. The world’s most recognizable footballers are clearly themselves, such as cover athlete Kaká and young phenom Lionel Messi. The stadiums look better than ever, and jerseys, ball designs, and cleats are all looking fresh and up to date. There is nothing groundbreaking here, just solid, to-be-expected graphical improvements, which are more than welcome.

FIFA games have a stellar record when it comes to soundtracks, and this year’s is no different. It’s no overstatement when people say the games’ music is always loved; there are always solid, eclectic selections that appeal to the wide player base. In addition, the crowd effects are good, sounds fitting, and the aforementioned commentary still strong. Martin Tyler and Andy Gray once again provide colorful commentary, announcing game events and happenings with fervor and enthusiasm, bringing life to the game, as all of the sound does as a whole.

FIFA isn’t the world’s best-selling sports franchise for no reason; this game has plenty to do. “FIFA 11” is besting its already successful pedigree by becoming the fastest selling sports game ever.  With a strong Be A Pro, fantastic online club play with your Pro, and of course Head-to-Head matches, there is an endless amount of fun to be had with the title.

 

Presentation:  8/10 * Slightly minimalistic but effective, slick menus and an overall solid package.

Game-play:  9.5/10 * Addicting, straightforward fun. Many solid game modes, and every game is a                                                            blast, especially when competing with others.

Graphics:  8.5/10  * What you would expect: Improved visuals, with good-looking models,                                                             animations, and tweaks.

Sound:  9.5/10  * Fantastic soundtrack as always, great commentary, and fitting sound effects.

Lasting Appeal:  9/10 * With all of the fun and well-done modes to choose from, and constant roster                                                            and game updates, you’ll be playing this one for a long time.

Overall:  9.0/10