The long-awaited eFootball 2022 Version 1.0.0 has finally arrived and it is the update that, Konami hopes, will slowly start to drive fans back to the game and potentially even rival FIFA 23.
Version 1.0.0 introduces us to the first of what we expect will be many eFootball seasons, having just kicked off 'Season 1'.
With the major update now live, we're bringing you all the details you need to know about the changes to the formerly PES game.
Latest - Season 1 is LIVE
Season 1 has officially started and Konami has released a launch trailer to go along with it. Check it out below:
It's safe to say the eFootball gameplay is completely different to that of what it was a few months ago, which will be music to PES fans' ears.
Plenty of new features and an overhauled gameplay system allow for a much smoother playing style in-game.
The game is still somewhat limited in the fact that there are still only nine teams available to play with.
However, with more updates and more features to play, Konami has brought eFootball back to a place from where it can build.
Gameplay changes
It looks like Konami has made some significant changes to different aspects of eFootball 2022's gameplay.
Overhauled defensive system
There are two key features that contribute most to the gameplay changes coming in Version 1.0.0.
The first is an overhauled defensive system which brings back the ability to press players by holding down a button (X on PlayStation, A on Xbox).
Holding that button brings your player closer to the opponent and then pressing it twice makes you tackle.
This is, in fact, the exact way that PES used to do it in recent years, which should be music to the fanbase's ears.
A new shoulder challenge move has also been introduced, giving extra options to gain possession and hence making defending easier.
Stunning Kicks
The other main addition is on the offensive side of things, with the introduction of a new ‘Stunning Kicks’ control.
Players can now pull off a Stunning Kick by pressing R2 / RT at exactly the same time as they press a kick button.
This turns the power meter blue and modifies the kick to make it more effective, but comes at a cost in that it takes the player much longer to wind up and release the ball.
All four main kick buttons have a Stunning variant including the pass, through ball and cross.
The Stunning Shot is the one to look out for though, as if pulled off correctly, the shot will carry significantly more power and accuracy.
What to Expect
Konami released the following statement along with the release date announcement:
"Driven by feedback received from our users, we have worked on fixing bugs, adjusting the game balance, and adding new elements to the game to make it even more enjoyable for our users.
It looks like a new game mode will also be introduced for Version 1.0.0:
"There will also be the addition of the game mode "Dream Team" - previously introduced as "Creative Team" - in which players can enjoy building their own team and take on other "Dream Teams" from around the world."