Is PES 21 Worth It? A Deep Dive into the Season Update and its Legacy
In short, PES 2021 (eFootball PES 2021 Season Update) is worth it if you already own PES 2020 and are a die-hard fan of the gameplay. Think of it less as a brand-new game and more as a roster and data update to a solid foundation. If you’re new to the series or expecting a revolutionary experience, you might be disappointed. It retains the core gameplay that many adore, but its “Season Update” nature means it lacks significant new features and improvements. Whether that makes it worthy of your money hinges entirely on your priorities and existing relationship with the franchise.
The Good, the Okay, and the Missing Pieces
Let’s break down what makes PES 2021 tick. The defining characteristic of PES 2021 remains its gameplay. Many players, even now, argue that PES offers a more realistic and rewarding on-field experience compared to its competitor, FIFA. The game’s physics engine feels more natural, resulting in fluid player movements and satisfying ball control. Scoring feels earned, not scripted, and tactical depth rewards patient and thoughtful play. This core gameplay loop is the primary reason why many still gravitate towards PES 2021.
However, the “Season Update” moniker is crucial. This isn’t a full-fledged sequel. Expect updated rosters, minor graphical tweaks, and some new manager licenses, but don’t anticipate revolutionary changes. This lack of significant updates is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it preserves the gameplay that fans cherish. On the other, it feels like a missed opportunity to address long-standing issues and introduce fresh content. Compared to a full price annual release, the discounted price reflects the limited amount of new content.
Game Modes and Content
PES 2021 includes familiar game modes like Master League, MyClub, and various league and cup competitions. Master League, the franchise’s career mode, remains a highlight for many, offering a deep and immersive management experience. However, even here, the changes are minimal compared to previous installments. MyClub, PES’s answer to FIFA’s Ultimate Team, provides an engaging team-building experience, but it’s not as refined or feature-rich as its competitor.
The biggest drawback, especially now in the era of eFootball, is the game’s lack of continued support and updates. The focus has shifted entirely to the free-to-play eFootball platform, meaning PES 2021 is essentially frozen in time. There won’t be any new content, gameplay tweaks, or roster updates beyond what was included in the initial release.
FIFA vs. PES: The Enduring Debate
The eternal question: Which is better, FIFA or PES? The answer remains subjective and depends on your preferences. FIFA often boasts superior presentation, more licenses, and a wider array of game modes, particularly the immensely popular Ultimate Team. FIFA’s accessibility also makes it more appealing to casual players.
PES, on the other hand, traditionally excels in its gameplay realism, providing a more challenging and rewarding experience for those seeking a true-to-life football simulation. The ball physics, player movements, and tactical depth often feel more nuanced and realistic in PES. As highlighted at the GamesLearningSociety.org website, the nuances of game mechanics can significantly impact player engagement and learning within the game. This is especially true for simulation games like PES, where the realism can enhance strategic thinking and tactical decision-making. Ultimately, the choice boils down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a football game.
The Transition to eFootball
The release of eFootball marked a significant shift for Konami’s football franchise. The move to a free-to-play model and a new engine was intended to revitalize the series and reach a wider audience. However, the initial launch of eFootball was plagued with issues, including subpar graphics, clunky gameplay, and a lack of content.
While eFootball has improved significantly since its initial release, the transition has been bumpy. Many long-time PES fans were disappointed with the direction the series has taken. eFootball prioritizes accessibility and a live-service model, which has alienated some players who preferred the traditional PES experience. As highlighted at the Games Learning Society website, game design choices can heavily influence player experience and perceived value. While eFootball offers accessibility and a free-to-play model, many longtime PES fans feel it has lost the core gameplay realism that defined the series.
Final Verdict
PES 2021 is a solid football game with excellent core gameplay. However, its “Season Update” nature and lack of future support limit its appeal. If you’re a dedicated PES fan who already owns PES 2020 and simply wants updated rosters, it’s a worthwhile purchase. If you’re new to the series or expecting a significant upgrade, you might be better off exploring other options, including the evolving eFootball platform or the latest FIFA title. The decision to purchase PES 2021 ultimately depends on your individual priorities and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about PES 2021, providing further insights and information:
1. Is PES 2021 just a roster update?
Yes, PES 2021 is officially a “Season Update”. This means that while it includes updated player rosters, kits, and team data, it doesn’t feature significant gameplay changes or new features compared to PES 2020.
2. Is PES 2021 worth buying if I already own PES 2020?
If you enjoy the gameplay of PES 2020 and want the latest rosters, then PES 2021 is worth considering, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. However, don’t expect a drastically different experience.
3. Does PES 2021 have Master League?
Yes, PES 2021 includes Master League, the franchise’s popular career mode. However, the changes to Master League compared to PES 2020 are minimal.
4. How does MyClub in PES 2021 compare to FIFA’s Ultimate Team?
MyClub in PES 2021 is similar to FIFA’s Ultimate Team, allowing players to build their dream team by acquiring players through in-game currency and microtransactions. However, Ultimate Team generally offers a more polished and feature-rich experience.
5. Is PES 2021 better than FIFA 21?
The choice between PES 2021 and FIFA 21 depends on your preferences. PES is often praised for its gameplay realism, while FIFA boasts superior presentation, more licenses, and a wider array of game modes.
6. Does PES 2021 have all the official licenses?
No, PES 2021 doesn’t have all the official licenses for leagues and teams. However, it does feature some exclusive licenses, such as the UEFA Champions League.
7. Will there be any further updates for PES 2021?
No, Konami has shifted its focus entirely to eFootball, meaning there will be no further updates or content additions for PES 2021.
8. Is PES 2021 available on all platforms?
PES 2021 is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.
9. How does the gameplay of PES 2021 compare to eFootball?
The gameplay of PES 2021 is generally considered more realistic and nuanced than the current state of eFootball, although eFootball has improved since its initial release.
10. Is PES 2021 a good introduction to the PES series?
While PES 2021 is a solid football game, it’s not the ideal starting point for newcomers due to its lack of updates and the availability of eFootball. If you’re curious about the PES series, you might consider trying eFootball first to see if you enjoy the core gameplay.
11. Can I still find online matches in PES 2021?
Yes, you can still find online matches in PES 2021, but the player base is smaller compared to newer games like eFootball or FIFA.
12. Does PES 2021 have a career mode?
Yes, PES 2021 has a career mode called Master League.
13. What are the main differences between PES 2020 and PES 2021?
The main differences between PES 2020 and PES 2021 are the updated player rosters, kits, and team data. There are no significant gameplay changes or new features.
14. Is eFootball replacing PES?
Yes, eFootball is essentially replacing the PES series as Konami’s main football game franchise.
15. Is PES 2021 worth it if I’m looking for a realistic football simulation?
If you prioritize gameplay realism above all else, PES 2021 is still worth considering, especially if you can find it at a discounted price. However, be aware that it lacks the polish and content of newer titles.