Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Sport
- Platforms: Nintendo 64, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation
- Developers: EA Canada, Extended Play Productions
- Publishers: Electronic Arts, Gradiente
FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 (1997): The Ultimate Soccer Simulation
Released in late 1997, FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was a groundbreaking soccer simulation game that captured the excitement and atmosphere of the upcoming 1998 FIFA World Cup. Developed by EA Sports, the game featured a wealth of new features and improvements over previous FIFA titles, including:
- Road to the World Cup mode: This mode allowed players to take a team from the first qualification round all the way to the World Cup finals, experiencing the varying qualification systems used in different parts of the world.
- 16 distinct outdoor stadia: The game featured a variety of stadiums from around the world, each with its own unique look and feel.
- 189 clubs and 11 leagues: Players could choose from a wide range of clubs and leagues, including all the major European leagues.
- Specific crowd chants: Each team had its own unique crowd chants, which added to the atmosphere of the game.
- Faster gameplay and improved AI: The action in FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was faster than in previous versions, and the AI was more challenging and realistic.
- Distinct player facial features and hairstyles: Players now had their own unique facial features and hairstyles, which made them more recognizable on the pitch.
- Commentary by Des Lynam, John Motson, and Andy Gray: The game’s matches were introduced by Des Lynam and commentated on by John Motson and former Scotland international Andy Gray, adding to the realism and atmosphere.
Gameplay
FIFA: Road to World Cup 98’s gameplay was fast-paced and exciting, with a focus on realism and skill. Players had a variety of controls at their disposal, including passing, shooting, dribbling, and tackling. The game also featured a variety of set pieces, such as free kicks, corner kicks, and penalties.
The AI in FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was challenging and realistic, and players had to use all their skills to overcome their opponents. The game also featured a variety of difficulty levels, so players of all skill levels could enjoy the game.
Graphics and Sound
FIFA: Road to World Cup 98’s graphics were impressive for the time, with detailed player models and stadiums. The game’s sound was also top-notch, with realistic crowd chants and commentary.
Reception
FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 5 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its realism, gameplay, and graphics. It was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year.
Legacy
FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 is considered one of the greatest soccer simulation games ever made. The game’s success helped to establish EA Sports as a leader in the sports video game genre. The game also helped to popularize the FIFA World Cup and soccer in general around the world.
Conclusion
FIFA: Road to World Cup 98 is a classic soccer simulation game that still holds up today. The game’s realism, gameplay, and graphics are all top-notch, and it’s a must-play for any fan of soccer video games.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
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