Pro Evolution Soccer 19 review

Presentation

PES 2019 also has its visual limitations, although players now somewhat resemble their real-life counterparts, especially when it comes to licensed teams like Barcelona or Arsenal. But they still look far inferior to other sports games.

There is a general improvement in the graphics, though. The lighting system is particularly well done, casting deep shadows on the lush green grass. PES 2019 looks like real sport in the most beautiful way, if you don’t look too closely.

The menus have also improved dramatically, but still lag behind the user-friendly FIFA ones. Getting around in various parts of the game is kind of a chore.

Oh, and the less you talk about the comment, the better. Peter Drury and Jim Beglin simply don’t have the chemistry, the script, or the enthusiasm for the job.

Final verdict

While it’s still a tough decision whether to opt for PES or FIFA, PES 2019 does the best job of trying to usurp EA’s hold. It is undoubtedly a game that has chosen to put substance first and then style. The emphasis is completely on football. This may not be enough to attract casual gamers who just want to play a few games with friends over the weekend. But hardcore gamers would probably be better served with PES 2019.