Fifa 09

The ultimate in football experience is back

With consumer anticipation for the game already sky high – and some hardline PES supporters even admitting that it could be a Pro Evo beater – EA has exclusively revealed to MCV that FIFA ‘09 is set for release on October 3rd.

The latest in the ultra-successful FIFA series is scheduled for release on PS3, 360, Wii, PC, PS2, PSP, DS and mobile platforms, and boasts considerable improvements over last year’s edition.

“We’ve made over 250 improvements from last year and we wanted to give the team the time they needed to make the best FIFA game possible,” said senior product manager Trevor Uzice. “We’re continuing to build on the solid foundation from last year which saw us create the most successful FIFA both in terms of sales and quality.”

Game improvements include a 20-player online mode, more responsive first time shooting, improved goalkeeper AI, and an over-the-top arcade mode built specifically for the Wii.

EA has also partnered with leading Premier League clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, Portsmouth, Newcastle and Tottenham, in support of the title.

“We are continuing to work with Arsenal on marketing initiatives and we are pleased to announce a three-year deal with Chelsea, which sees us become their exclusive games partner,” continued Uzice.

“We are also working with several Premier League clubs on programmes which will allow us to build a closer relationship with fans around the country. Just as important to us is our commitment to the Football League and we will be working with all clubs from the Championship, Division 1 and Division 2.”

Step onto the pitch and play professional football your way in FIFA 09. Experience the most authentic football simulation EA SPORTS™ has delivered as you live the fantasy of playing as a professional player and customize the game to suit your style and ability.

Powered by the third generation of the EA SPORTS football engine, FIFA 09 features more than 250 core gameplay additions and enhancements that deliver the most responsive, intelligent and realistic action ever for the series. Enjoy turning defenders with more controlled dribbling and ball control, snapping off precision shots with improved first-time shooting mechanics and firing beautifully timed passes with greater accuracy, placing the ball exactly where you want it. With new player momentum physics the speed and weight of the player determines everything from the distance of a slide tackle and the power of a header to the severity of player collisions and the height of a player’s jump. Plus, players now behave according to their physical attributes with larger, stronger players dominating collisions, battles for control of the ball, and position in challenges for two player headers.

Product screenshotFIFA 09 features new Custom Team Tactics that gives you all the tools to become a first-team coach. For the first time, go inside the game engine to customize the positioning and support play of your teammates and decide exactly how your team will play in any situation. Now you are the player, coach and manager! You have the power to adjust and customize tactical settings so CPU players and your team perform just like the real-world team plays or how you think it should play. Save your tactics and then make strategic decisions to exploit your opponent’s weaknesses, all on-the-fly.

Live the fantasy of a professional football player through the popular feature innovation – Be A Pro – now expanded to include a career mode. In Be A Pro: Seasons you pick or create a professional player and then develop his skills at a single outfield position with the ultimate goal of becoming a national legend.

FIFA 09 delivers a new level of authenticity. The matchday experience is now true-to-life with a referee and assistants. Plus, crowds, stadium atmosphere, and commentary have all been regionalized in exacting detail and 15 new stadiums added.