| System: PS4, Xbox One, PC, Xbox 360, PS3 |  |
| Dev: EA Canada | |
| Pub: EA Sports | |
| Release: September 27, 2016 | |
| Players: 1-4 Players and Online Multiplayer | |
| Screen Resolution: 480p-1080p | Content is generally suitable for all ages. |
One undervalued component in FIFA 17 is the revamped player intelligence system that alters and manages the way players move and react to each play. I noticed that my teammates would gauge my ability or inability to make a move and get by a defender before reacting. In other words, my teammates seemed to be calculating my movements before deciding whether or no to fill the lane for a pass or fall back in coverage in case of a quick turnover. This piece of technology was quite impressive, yet most people are going to overlook it as it blends in so nicely. Regardless, it was very cool to see the AI react in a lifelike manner, which only further adds to the realism of the game.
After all these years, FIFA is still one of the most well-presented sports games out there. The Madden franchise hasn’t seen a good set of commentators since Madden himself graced the platform way back when and NHL only seems to get marginally better each year. Don’t even get me started on the dumpster fire that is UFC’s booth of mouth breathers. Anyway, I don’t really know what makes FIFA different. Maybe it’s the thick accent projected by Hervé Mathoux or the fluid on-screen infographics that tie the commentary and gameplay action perfectly together.
Don't worry, it still looks great, too. It still sports that perfectly manicured grass and the intricate details of the arenas that make this one of EA’s gems each and every year.
When all is said and done, EA Sports has provided another rock solid title that caps off another impressive year for the gaming giant. Yes, the title still contains all the favorites fans love from the franchise. However, this year is all about so much more - Alex Hunter and his promising career. EA could have stripped the title dry and only provided The Journey and I’d still give it a positive score. The game mode is simply that good. Throw in a few gameplay improvements and you have yourself one heck of a new installment in the FIFA family. The only thing left is to take the pitch and see what you’re truly made of. Only time will tell if the Premier League swallows you up or if you’ll emerge as the game’s brightest star. EA Sports has provided the platform for you to make that happen, but ultimately the choices, and all their consequences, are truly in your hands.
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By Patrick Tretina Contributing Writer Date: September 27, 2016 |
Game Features:
*VARIATIONS ACROSS PLATFORMS AND CONSOLE GENERATIONS MAY OCCUR
