Pro Evolution Soccer 2009

Critic reviews

• IIGN

  Nate Ahearn · Nov 26, 2008

  7.2

  Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 makes a valiant effort at keeping pace with FIFA 09, and there are some improvements and good ideas under the strange gameplay changes that were made, it?s just tough to see them if you?ve played FIFA. As with most beleaguered franchises, it seems like PES 2009 could use a bit of a reboot with a new engine and improved visuals and presentation values.

  Read review from IGN (opens in a new tab)
• GTGame Trailers

  Game Trailers · Nov 18, 2008

  7.6

  Pro Evolution Soccer 2009's visuals may not be in the same league as the versions released on the more powerful PS3 and Xbox 360, but it's hands down the better playing game. From the competitive AI to the innovative controls, Konami proves you don't need to cut or needlessly simplify features to deliver a quality sports game on the Wii.
• CCheatcc

  Jonathan Marx · Nov 11, 2008

  6.8

  Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 will undoubtedly appeal to the PES faithful. If you're a FIFA guy and are wondering what the fuss is all about, you'll still be left wondering. The solid, friendly A.I. and easy passing mechanic is more satisfying than that of last year's version or that found in EA's footie title. However, the lack of overall polish is inexcusable.

  Read review from Cheatcc (opens in a new tab)
• GGameSpot

  Guy Cocker · Oct 22, 2008

  7.0

  Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 is a good game, but it's one that has significantly failed to evolve over the last few years. The new modes add some potential interest for owners of last year’s game, but the Champions League is just flashy dressing for a competition that still doesn't feature all of the official teams, and the Become a Legend mode is neither as feature-packed nor as fun to play as FIFA 09's equivalent.

  Read review from GameSpot (opens in a new tab)
• VGVideo Gamer

  Wesley Yin-Poole · Oct 17, 2008

  7.0

  Still, we can't help but feel that there's going to be thousands of PES fans who embrace the power of the dark side this year, on account of the fact that it simply doesn't feel like Konami is putting much effort into the so-called 'next-gen' versions of PES these days. You might even say the PS2 is the lead platform, when you compare the strides forward between Konami and EA's efforts.

  Read review from Video Gamer (opens in a new tab)
• GWGame Watcher

  Richard Walker · Nov 21, 2008

  8.0

  For now, PES 2009 only just eclipses FIFA 09 by a hair’s breadth. If you’re after the definitive, TV-style representation of the sport, then FIFA’s undoubtedly your game. But, if you’re all about the purist’s choice, then PES for our money still represents the pinnacle of videogame football. Whichever title you opt for though, you’ll be getting a brilliant football game either way.

  Read review from Game Watcher (opens in a new tab)

See all critic reviews