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This Is Soccer 2002AU is a captivating soccer video game that made an indelible mark on the sports gaming genre at the turn of the century. Developed by the pioneering team at Sony Computer Entertainment, this title was designed specifically for the PlayStation platform, offering a rich and immersive soccer experience that captured the hearts of fans across Australia and beyond. This article delves into the various aspects of This Is Soccer 2002AU, exploring its story, gameplay, graphics and sound, as well as its legacy and reception.

Story

Unlike many sports games of its era, This Is Soccer 2002AU did not follow a conventional narrative structure, as it focused more on delivering an authentic soccer simulation experience. However, it did offer a compelling campaign mode that provided depth and context to the matches. Players were tasked with leading their chosen team through a series of tournaments and leagues, with the ultimate goal of achieving glory on the international stage.

The game featured a diverse roster of teams from around the world, each with its own unique characteristics and playstyles. This diversity allowed players to experience the thrill of international competition as they navigated through various challenges and rivalries. While the game lacked a traditional storyline, it compensated by offering a dynamic and engaging progression system that encouraged players to hone their skills and strategize effectively.

Gameplay

This Is Soccer 2002AU shone in its gameplay mechanics, delivering a realistic and exhilarating soccer experience. The game was lauded for its intuitive controls and fluid animations, which made it accessible to both newcomers and seasoned players. It offered a wide range of gameplay modes, including exhibition matches, league competitions, and the aforementioned campaign mode.

Controls and Mechanics

The controls in This Is Soccer 2002AU were designed to be straightforward yet versatile. Players could perform a variety of actions, from basic passes and shots to complex dribbles and tactical maneuvers. The game employed a responsive control scheme that allowed players to execute precise movements and strategies on the field. This level of control was crucial for players looking to master the game’s intricacies and outmaneuver their opponents.

Game Modes

The game provided an array of modes to keep players engaged. The league mode allowed players to take on the role of a team manager, guiding their squad through a full season of matches. Here, players could make strategic decisions regarding player lineups, formations, and tactics, adding a layer of depth and realism to the gameplay.

The exhibition mode offered quick matches where players could select their favorite teams and compete against friends or AI opponents. This mode was perfect for casual gaming sessions and provided endless replayability.

AI and Difficulty

The artificial intelligence in This Is Soccer 2002AU was praised for its realism and challenge. The AI opponents adapted to players’ strategies, forcing them to continually refine their tactics and approach. This dynamic AI system ensured that matches remained engaging and unpredictable, contributing to the game’s longevity and appeal.

Graphics and Sound

This Is Soccer 2002AU excelled in delivering a visually captivating and immersive experience. For its time, the game boasted impressive graphics that brought the excitement of soccer to life on the PlayStation console.

Visuals

The game’s graphics were characterized by detailed player models and realistic stadiums. Each team featured distinct uniforms and player likenesses, adding authenticity to the matches. The stadiums were meticulously designed, capturing the atmosphere of real-world soccer arenas with enthusiastic crowds and vibrant pitch designs.

Animations played a crucial role in enhancing the visual experience. The fluidity of player movements, from dribbling and passing to shooting and tackling, contributed to the game’s realism. The attention to detail in player animations made each match feel dynamic and lifelike.

Sound Design

The sound design in This Is Soccer 2002AU complemented its visual prowess. The game featured an energetic soundtrack that captured the excitement and intensity of soccer matches. Commentary added another layer of immersion, with commentators providing insightful analysis and play-by-play coverage of the action on the field.

The crowd noise was another standout feature, enhancing the atmosphere of matches. Cheers, chants, and reactions from the virtual audience made players feel as if they were participating in a live soccer event, further immersing them in the game.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, This Is Soccer 2002AU received positive reviews from critics and players alike. Its realistic gameplay, intuitive controls, and immersive audiovisual presentation were highlighted as standout features that set it apart from other soccer games of its time.

Critics praised the game’s ability to capture the essence of soccer, providing an experience that was both challenging and rewarding. The dynamic AI and variety of game modes ensured that players remained engaged, while the attention to detail in graphics and sound design added to the game’s appeal.

Impact on the Genre

This Is Soccer 2002AU played a significant role in shaping the future of soccer video games. It set a high standard for realism and gameplay mechanics, influencing subsequent titles in the genre. The game’s success demonstrated the demand for authentic soccer simulations, paving the way for future innovations in sports gaming.

Community and Fanbase

The game developed a dedicated fanbase, with players appreciating its depth and authenticity. Online communities emerged, where fans shared strategies, experiences, and custom challenges. This sense of community extended the game’s lifespan and cemented its status as a beloved classic among soccer enthusiasts.

Conclusion

This Is Soccer 2002AU remains a cherished title in the history of soccer video games. Its commitment to realism, engaging gameplay, and immersive presentation left a lasting impact on the genre. The game’s influence can be seen in the evolution of soccer games that followed, as developers continue to strive for the level of authenticity and excitement that This Is Soccer 2002AU delivered.

In summary, This Is Soccer 2002AU stands as a testament to the power of sports gaming to capture the hearts and minds of players. Its legacy endures as a classic representation of soccer, appealing to fans of the beautiful game and video game enthusiasts alike.