FIFA 10 Review

With people getting hyped up from the World Cup, EA Sports has seen a record increase in it's FIFA video game for mobile devices. However, are the modes in this game interesting, are the graphics passable, and most importantly, is the gameplay high quality? Below is our TalkAndroid review:

When FIFA first came out for Android devices, many people wondered if it would be an arcade-like game, or a game similar to FIFA on consoles, with deep managing modes and and enthralling Be a Pro Mode. The end product is somewhat in between. FIFA for Android features basically almost every feature of the console versions, such as Manager Mode, My Pro mode, and Training. Even though all of these modes are a little less in depth than they would normally be, it's impressive to see that level of detail on a mobile phone.
The amount of work also put into the graphics is stunning. Players look as if they would in real life, and the field's are created nicely. The presentation obviously doesn't look as good as it would as a console game, but once again, on a mobile device, it really adds more depth to the game. The "halftime shows" show highlights of the game, which is pretty cool, but probably the best feature is that it shows a shot diagram, where shots are presented in lines on where they went. Announcing is also a part of the game, but quotes are trite and are repetitive.
The gameplay of the game is what prevents this game from being great. Even though the touch-controls work together perfectly, the AI doesn't have a good sense on where to go, and don't really make plays off the ball. Teammates often don't go for loose balls when they have a chance to get it, or don't cut to an open spot, instead lagging behind. The passing in this game is probably the worst part of the gameplay; the AI doesn't respond to where you pass it, often just standing there and waiting for the ball to come to them. The end result of this level of gameplay causes games to be mainly running around the field dodging defenders, and maybe getting an open shot on goal.
The game modes in this game are basically what you would find in the console versions. Be a Pro mode, however, isn't as fun as it would be on a console, however, as what you basically do is just control one player and try to score a few goals. Training mode is what I found the most interesting in the game, especially the whole team vs. goalie mode. Instead of clueless teammates to slow you down, you get to fire shots on the goalie, making him go one way or another with your passes. The mode also features corner kicks, free kicks, and penalty kicks, which can be surprisingly nice stress relievers. Only in the training mode can you see what this game should have become.
Overall, FIFA 10 for mobile phones was a nice offering for a first year game. The detailed controls mesh well, and the graphics are good enough to keep you interested. However, it is the gameplay where the game really starts to droop; the arcade like AI can be frustrating sometimes, and it is especially noticeable to soccer fans. EA has made an average first try, one which can definitely be built on next year, into a really high quality game.