The wait for PES 2021 Season Update is finally over!
We managed to play the game early thanks to Konami, so here is what we think of their new game.
PES 2021 Trailer
First Impressions
Impressive.
As a football fan, the gameplay is thoroughly enjoyable.
DOMINATE! The battle for possession is crucial
More care must be taken over passing and finishing, otherwise you will lose possession of the ball very quickly!
Once you get to grips with the tempo of the match, it is there for you to dominate.
Game Modes
We have only been able to play offline game modes so far, but there are still plenty of positives!
Kick Off
If you just want to jump in and play, kick-off offers plenty of choice to do so!
READ MORE: PES 2021: Day One Patch Explained
You don’t just have to play matches either. the training option allows you to hone your skills in a pressure-free environment.
Another bonus of PES 2021 is Euro 2020! The tournament has been postponed, but the fully licensed teams can certainly quench your thirst for international football.
Master League
The star of the game so far. For FIFA Career Mode fans, Master league is certainly worth a thought!
Straight away you are immersed into the game mode with relevant cut-scenes that really add to your story.
MEET THE STARS! There are loads of fun cut-scenes in PES 2021 Master League
From meeting your new players, setting objectives with the board, and showing your latest signings off to the press, Konami have done an impressive job.
The game itself includes the capability to set the training for your first team and youth team alike, making sure you assemble your squad your way!
BUY NOW: PES 2021 Season Update
The level of detail and control over your own career is excellent too, with almost every aspect of the game customisable to your own preferences.
Become a Legend
‘Lock to Player’ game modes have always been tricky on football games, but Become a Legend is one of the better attempts.
Although not as immersive as Master League, Become a Legend is still a decent game mode in its own right.
BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM! Can you become a legend just like the former England captain
Starting off as a young prodigy, you must earn your way into the first team.
However, Konami could look at NBA 2K to see how player career game modes should be executed!
A ‘skip to next involvement’ feature should be added. No one wants to sit through a 0-0 even if it is on fast-forward.
myClub
Konami's myClub game mode is the equivalent of Ultimate Team on FIFA.
However, if you want a more detailed and in-depth game mode, this is the one for you!
With scouts, agents and more, there is plenty to get your head round and take control of your club.
Statistics
Track all your online data with the statistics tab.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about PES 2021’s Licences
All your online stats will be available for those of you who love to analyse and crunch numbers.
Licenses
If the licenses are an issue for you, fear not!
A common misconception is that all the players have fake names, but this is not the case.
READ MORE: Every single club in PES 2021
The team names may not be accurate though, but this is easily fixed with the option files!
Verdict
With Konami focusing on the Next Gen consoles, it comes as no surprise that PES 2021 is not that different to PES 2020.
PES 2021 is still a good game though, especially for those of you who enjoy the offline game modes.
LEGEND OF THE GAME! Will you bring Iniesta to your club?
Master League is excellent. The detail and length of the cut-scenes keep them fresh and exciting while giving it a personalised feel to your career.
In terms of gameplay, PES 2021 feels more strategic, taking longer to work teams out and then trying to find that killer pass.
READ MORE: Four reasons to buy PES 2021 Season Update
With Next Gen consoles arriving soon, this could be the ideal time to test out PES 2021 if you haven’t already - especially with the game costing just £24.99 / $29.99 this year.
Konami has made great strides in the past couple of years and we can’t wait to see what they produce next year!
RealSport Rating: 4 stars (out of 5)
eFootball PES 2021 Season Update is out now on PS4, Xbox One and PC via Steam.
We reviewed eFootball PES 2021 on PS4 Slim.
BUY NOW: PES 2021 Season Update