Game data not found.
This Is Football 2002, released exclusively in Europe, is part of the renowned This Is Football series, which captured the hearts of soccer enthusiasts in the early 2000s. Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, the game offered a unique take on soccer simulation, providing players with an immersive experience that combined realism and accessibility.
Story
Unlike many video games that feature elaborate narratives, This Is Football 2002 focuses on the pure essence of soccer. The primary objective of the game is to lead your chosen team through various tournaments, leagues, and cups, aiming for glory on the virtual pitch. While it does not offer a traditional story mode, it provides an engaging experience through its comprehensive career mode. Here, players can assume the role of a manager, making strategic decisions, managing team rosters, and ensuring the success of their squad in multiple competitions.
The lack of a structured storyline allows players to create their own narratives, with each match and tournament serving as a chapter in their personalized soccer saga. This open-ended structure encourages players to invest in their teams, develop strategies, and experience the highs and lows of a football season.
Gameplay
This Is Football 2002 is celebrated for its realistic approach to soccer gameplay, offering a balance between arcade-style fun and simulation depth. The game features an extensive roster of teams and players, including licensed club teams and national squads from around the world. This diversity allows players to engage in matches representing their favorite teams or explore new ones.
Controls and Mechanics
The gameplay mechanics are intuitive, making it accessible for newcomers while providing depth for seasoned players. The controls are designed to offer precision and fluidity, allowing players to execute passes, shots, and tackles with ease. The game’s AI is notable for its realistic behavior, providing a challenging yet fair opponent on the field. Players can adjust difficulty settings to suit their skill level, making it a welcoming experience for both casual and hardcore fans.
Game Modes
This Is Football 2002 offers a variety of game modes, ensuring there is something for every soccer enthusiast. Key modes include:
- Exhibition Matches: Quick games where players can choose any team to compete against AI or friends.
- Career Mode: A comprehensive experience that allows players to manage a team through multiple seasons, focusing on tactical decisions and player development.
- Custom Tournaments: Players can create their own tournaments, choosing participating teams and tournament structure.
- Training Mode: Offers players the opportunity to hone their skills, practice set pieces, and master controls.
Graphics and Sound
This Is Football 2002 was impressive for its time, offering visuals that captured the excitement and atmosphere of a live soccer match. The attention to detail in player models, stadiums, and kits contributed to an immersive experience. The animation of players was smooth, with realistic movements that enhanced the overall authenticity of the game.
Visuals
The game’s graphics were designed to take full advantage of the PlayStation 2’s capabilities, showcasing detailed environments and dynamic lighting. The stadiums were meticulously crafted to mirror real-world counterparts, complete with cheering crowds and vibrant pitches. The user interface was clean and straightforward, making navigation seamless for players.
Audio
The sound design in This Is Football 2002 added to the game’s immersion, featuring realistic crowd noises, commentary, and on-field sounds. The commentary, while repetitive at times, provided insightful match analysis and added to the game’s broadcast-style presentation. The dynamic crowd reactions heightened the tension and excitement during critical moments, such as goals and near-misses.
Legacy and Reception
This Is Football 2002 was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its realistic gameplay and depth. It stood out in a competitive market dominated by other soccer franchises, carving its niche with a unique blend of accessibility and authenticity.
Critical Acclaim
Critics appreciated the game’s attention to detail, comprehensive team rosters, and engaging gameplay. The career mode, in particular, was highlighted for its strategic depth and replayability. Players enjoyed the challenge of managing teams over multiple seasons, making tactical adjustments, and witnessing their decisions impact the outcome of matches.
Fan Reception
Fans of the series embraced This Is Football 2002 for its improvements over its predecessors and its ability to capture the essence of soccer. The game maintained a dedicated player base, with many appreciating its balance of realism and fun.
Conclusion
This Is Football 2002 remains a cherished title among soccer gaming enthusiasts. Its commitment to providing a realistic yet accessible soccer experience set it apart from contemporaries. The game’s legacy is marked by its contribution to the evolution of soccer simulations, influencing future titles with its emphasis on gameplay depth and authenticity.
In summary, This Is Football 2002 not only delivered an engaging soccer experience but also set a benchmark for future iterations in the series. Its impact is felt even today, as it laid the groundwork for the evolution of soccer video games into more immersive and realistic simulations. Whether you are a lifelong fan of the series or a newcomer to soccer games, This Is Football 2002 offers a nostalgic journey into the world of virtual soccer.
