FIFA 17: 7 Big New Additions You Need To Know

5. More Intelligent Runs

Putting aside the developments that are being filed away as groundbreaking, FIFA also has the usual raft of delicate tweaks and new features to improve the game. One of the first announced hopes to address the traditional issue of players screaming "No man! Not there! I'm going there! Get in the channel!" at their AI teammates. Off the ball runs are being made quote/unquote "more intelligent".

In a move that will likely be one of the more subtle catalysts for a forthcoming robot apocalypse, FIFA has given the AI an understanding of the concept of space. Their current understanding is that space = good and space near the opponents goal = very good, but in '17 they'll actively look to create space for their teammates and occupy areas that'll cause indirect problems for defenders.

For example; your 10 is cruising through on goal in the centre of the pitch with the ball at his feet and a forward ahead of him. In previous versions of the game the forward would look to dart towards goal anticipating a through ball. Now, unless the pass is definitely on, they'll likely pull out wide to try and drag a defender out of your path.

McHardy commented; Your teammates are going to work hard. Theyll make more runs that are better and more specific to what your side is trying to achieve. There wont be as many defensive stalemates". In real terms, this probably means that the pitch will look a lot busier in-game. With players across the pitch considering not just where they should be, but where they could be.