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Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) has a rich 20-year history, enduring its share of ups and downs while cultivating a loyal fanbase that rivals EA Sports’ FIFA. After a period of stagnation on the PS3 and Xbox 360, PES 2015 showed promising signs of a resurgence on the PS4 and Xbox One. Konami doubled down on this momentum with PES 2016, aiming to deliver a landmark title worthy of its 20th anniversary. The demo even won “Best Sports Game” at Gamescom 2015, building hype ahead of its release just a week before its main competitor, FIFA 16. Does PES 2016 live up to the expectations? Let’s dive in.

A Revitalized On-Pitch Experience

Authentic Gameplay in PES 2016

The first thing most football game fans do is jump into a friendly match to test the gameplay. In PES 2016, Konami has delivered one of the most authentic football experiences in the last decade. The gameplay evokes the magic of PES 6, but with updated visuals and refined mechanics.

This realism stems from several key improvements. The new physics engine, combined with refined player stats, significantly impacts how the game feels.

Improved Player Movement and Ball Physics

Dribbling feels responsive and precise, especially when controlling renowned players like Messi, Ronaldo, or Hazard, whose unique playing styles are faithfully recreated. Passing and shooting also feel significantly improved compared to PES 2015.

Tactical considerations play a more prominent role. Teams with strong midfielders like Yaya Toure or Paul Pogba can dominate the midfield, while physically imposing defenders can effectively neutralize smaller, less powerful forwards. This interplay of player attributes and tactics adds depth to the gameplay.

Playing PES 2016 delivers a captivating experience reminiscent of PES 6, but with modern graphics.

Dynamic and Varied Gameplay

Diverse Gameplay Situations

PES 2016 doesn’t just feel authentic; it’s also dynamic and varied, thanks in part to the Fox Engine. Combined with the new physics system, nearly every play feels unique, influenced by player attributes and on-field conditions. Tackles and interceptions, in particular, are impacted by timing and player stats, creating a more realistic and unpredictable flow.

This dynamism extends to player control. The distinct characteristics of star players are evident in every touch and challenge. Powerful, physical players feel different from agile, technical dribblers. These distinct strengths and weaknesses encourage tactical adjustments and strategic substitutions, adding another layer of engagement.

The addition of three times more animations compared to previous iterations makes the game smoother and more visually appealing. While it might not quite reach the level of polish seen in FIFA, PES 2016 significantly closes the gap, even borrowing elements like goal celebrations.

PES 2016 not only impresses with its authentic feel but also captivates with its dynamic and varied gameplay, powered by the Fox Engine.

Enhanced Game Modes

Master League in PES 2016

Beyond the standard single-player and online modes featuring licensed leagues, PES 2016 brings back Master League and myClub with notable improvements.

Master League receives the most significant overhaul, though it still lacks the depth of FIFA’s Career Mode. The new, more intuitive interface, reminiscent of Football Manager, puts players in the manager’s seat, where decisions have tangible consequences for the team.

myClub Mode in PES 2016

Players can express their opinions based on their form, and the transfer system is more realistic.

Player feedback and a more realistic transfer system add depth to the managerial experience. While transfers don’t involve direct negotiations with clubs, high-profile signings are accompanied by press conference cutscenes.

myClub, PES’s answer to FIFA’s Ultimate Team, also sees improvements for better balance. Drawing from their experience with mobile titles like PES Club Manager and PES Collection, Konami integrates elements of card-collecting gameplay into myClub.

Persistent Issues Hold It Back

Goalkeeper Issues in PES 2016

Despite being the best PES in years, the game suffers from lingering issues, particularly in defense, especially the goalkeeping. Goalkeepers have always been a weak point in PES, but they are particularly problematic in this iteration. Poor reflexes, questionable positioning, and general ineffectiveness plague this crucial position. The defensive line also struggles with positioning and responsiveness, making it easy for opponents to exploit.

Defensive Weaknesses in PES 2016

Consequently, matches often end with high scores, as scoring is simply too easy. Unless you shoot directly at the goalkeeper or sky the ball (which is unlikely given how forgiving the shooting mechanics are), goals are almost guaranteed.

Off the pitch, PES continues to lag behind FIFA in presentation, primarily due to licensing limitations. This is a familiar issue for PES fans, but PES 2016 launched without any summer transfer updates, a significant oversight. While this can be rectified eventually, console players have to wait for official updates, unlike PC players who can benefit from fan-made patches.

While PES 2016 is a strong entry in the series, it still suffers from persistent flaws that detract from the overall experience.

Conclusion

PES 2016 represents a significant step forward for the franchise, delivering a compelling and enjoyable football experience. The improved gameplay, dynamic matches, and enhanced game modes make it a worthy competitor to FIFA. However, the persistent defensive issues, particularly the goalkeeping woes, and the lack of licensing and transfer updates at launch hold it back from true greatness. Despite its flaws, PES 2016 is a welcome return to form and a promising sign of things to come.