1. Lasting Appeal
So into extra time we go. With so many games coming out this year, what with Batman, Watch Dogs and all the next gen titles, if you're going to spend £40+ on a game, you will want to get the most out of it. I have already discussed the depth FIFA offers, with its many modes and re-playability, but is it lacking the most important feature? Games are meant to be fun, even when trying to be a simulation. Is FIFA still a frustrating experience after a few weeks/months? Similarly, PES 2014 might also suffer from this over the coming months. Obviously, we can only look at last year's offering to see the pattern. The one thing that might swing it in Pro Evo's favour is its regular tweaking to not just game play, but to the actual aesthetics of the game, also. Konami has promised fans a regular stream of DLC that will include 100's of updated player faces, classic kits and stadiums and even big gameplay additions. FIFA 14 seems to have lot of subtle changes to tide fans over until Christmas, when most people will be taking the plunge and going next gen. Don't get me wrong, FIFA 14 is a great game, it's just too much of the same thing. It's hard to see someone pouring another 200-300 hours into Career Mode or Ultimate Team, unless you skipped its predecessor, in which case the game will be a revolutionary step up from FIFA 12. FIFA 14 still suffers from gameplay imbalance, with finesse shots and over the top through balls already causing major frustration for fans. It's hard to stomach, especially as its better looking brother looms in the distance. Is FIFA 14 competing with itself, then? Definitely not. PES 2014 has given the series new life, and the possibilities for the future are very exciting. The fox engine is stunning, and one could argue it's even capable of competing with EA's next gen Ignite engine. High praise indeed. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal choice. This year, there is no clear winner. Konami has clawed back a lot of ground, and for the first time in a long time, casuals are taking notice. MLO is a barebones Ultimate Team, Master League is rivaled by Career Mode. Be a pro and Become a Legend. Licences vs. an amazing edit mode. Each game brings its own unique flavour. Issues aside, you can't go wrong with either game this year, but ultimately FIFA 14 feels like a stop gap before EA fully embrace next gen with open arms. The subtle changes make for an all around better experience, but PES 2014 just begs to be explored. Even at 50 hours in, there are still new animations popping up and new tricks to master. For all the depth it lacks in modes and licences, PES 2014 shines on the pitch. A controversial choice no doubt, but one that is not unwarranted. Both games have issues, and is really does come down to which you will play more of - online or offline modes. A late, last minute goal for PES 2014. PES 2014 - 4 FIFA 14 - 3
Winner: PES 2014 Which game do you think is better? Let us know in the comments below.