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This Is Soccer 2003AU is a prominent entry in the world of sports video games, particularly in the realm of soccer. Released to the Australian market, this game aimed to capture the essence of the sport through innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging features. Developed as part of the popular This Is Soccer series, the 2003AU edition stood out for its localized content and specific attention to the nuances of Australian soccer. In this article, we delve into the various aspects that define This Is Soccer 2003AU, covering its story, gameplay, graphics, sound, and the legacy it left in the gaming community.

Story

While most sports games do not emphasize narrative elements, This Is Soccer 2003AU takes a unique approach by incorporating a subtle but engaging storyline. The game does not follow a traditional narrative arc like role-playing games but weaves storytelling into its career mode. Players assume the role of a young, aspiring soccer player starting from humble beginnings in a local Australian league. The journey from amateur status to professional stardom is the core storyline that drives the game forward.

The narrative is primarily delivered through career milestones and interactions with various characters, such as coaches, teammates, and rivals. As players progress, they face challenges both on and off the field, with decisions impacting their career trajectory. This narrative structure provides a sense of immersion and personal investment, encouraging players to engage deeply with the game and its environments.

Gameplay

The gameplay of This Is Soccer 2003AU is where the game truly shines, offering a rich and dynamic experience that captures the heart of soccer. The developers focused on creating a realistic simulation of the sport, paying close attention to the control scheme and player mechanics.

Control Scheme

The game offers intuitive controls that are easy to learn for beginners yet provide depth for seasoned players. The control scheme allows for precise movements and strategic plays, with options for both manual and automatic player control. This flexibility ensures that players can tailor the experience to their skill level and preferred style of play.

Game Modes

This Is Soccer 2003AU features several game modes that cater to different player preferences:

• Exhibition Matches: Quick matches that allow players to jump straight into the action, either against AI or a friend.
• Career Mode: A comprehensive mode where players guide their character through the ranks, making key decisions that affect their career.
• Tournament Mode: Players can participate in various tournaments, both local and international, striving for the championship.
• Training: A mode focused on honing skills and improving gameplay mechanics through drills and challenges.

AI and Difficulty Settings

The AI in This Is Soccer 2003AU is particularly noteworthy. It adapts to player strategies, providing a challenging yet fair experience. The game includes multiple difficulty settings, ensuring that players of all skill levels can enjoy the game. This dynamic AI behavior keeps matches engaging and unpredictable, enhancing replayability.

Graphics and Sound

The visual and auditory elements of This Is Soccer 2003AU play a crucial role in immersing players in the soccer experience.

Graphics

For its time, the game boasted impressive graphics, with detailed player models and realistic animations. The stadiums are meticulously designed, capturing the atmosphere of real-life venues. The attention to detail extends to the textures and lighting, which contribute to the overall realism of the game. These graphical elements work together to create a visually appealing representation of soccer.

Sound

The sound design in This Is Soccer 2003AU complements its graphical prowess. The game features a robust soundtrack that includes both dynamic in-game music and ambient sounds that enhance the match experience. Commentary is provided by renowned soccer analysts, adding a layer of authenticity and excitement to the gameplay. The sound effects, from the roar of the crowd to the thud of the ball, are carefully crafted to provide an immersive auditory experience.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, This Is Soccer 2003AU received positive reviews from both critics and players. It was praised for its realistic gameplay mechanics, engaging career mode, and attention to detail in both graphics and sound. The localized content resonated well with Australian players, who appreciated the focus on their domestic soccer scene.

Critics lauded the game’s ability to balance realism with fun, making it accessible to a broad audience. The control scheme and AI were highlighted as standout features, contributing to the game’s dynamic and challenging matches. While some noted minor issues with frame rates and occasional bugs, these did not significantly detract from the overall experience.

The legacy of This Is Soccer 2003AU lies in its impact on future sports games. It set a benchmark for realism and narrative integration in soccer simulations, influencing subsequent titles in both the This Is Soccer series and the broader genre. The game continues to be remembered fondly by fans, particularly in Australia, where it remains a nostalgic piece of gaming history.

Conclusion

This Is Soccer 2003AU stands as a significant entry in the realm of soccer video games, offering a blend of realism, engaging gameplay, and immersive storytelling. Its focus on the Australian soccer scene provided localized content that resonated deeply with its audience, setting it apart from other titles in the series. The game’s legacy is marked by its influence on future sports simulations, particularly in how they balance gameplay mechanics with narrative elements.

Overall, This Is Soccer 2003AU is remembered as a game that not only entertained but also pushed the boundaries of what a sports video game could achieve. Its impact continues to be felt in the industry, serving as a testament to its quality and innovation.