This is a major installment in the world of football simulation, representing a significant evolution for the long-running soccer franchise developed and published by Konami. Launched in September 2021, this title transitioned to a completely free-to-play model and introduced a new foundational engine, Unreal Engine, aiming to redefine the on-pitch experience across current and last-generation consoles, as well as PC. The core focus is delivering a highly technical and realistic football simulation where player control and tactical awareness are paramount.

Core Gameplay Mechanics and Control Fidelity

The simulation emphasizes granular control over player actions, moving beyond simple button presses. Players gain the ability to precisely dictate the strength of kicking and control dribbling speed, ranging from subtle close control to full sprints. This depth extends to trapping the ball, turning every engagement into a potential mind game. A wide array of dribbles and body feints are also available via intuitive commands.

Defensively, the game recreates the importance of "physical defense" through a dedicated charging command, allowing players to actively challenge opponents. Offensively, players can utilize their bodies to shield the ball and maintain possession. This dynamic interplay between offense and defense is central to the moment-to-moment action.

What makes the player movement feel more realistic?

A key technological advancement is the implementation of Motion Matching technology. This system analyzes multiple real-time factors—including ball position, movement speed, body orientation, and physical attributes—to influence player movement, resulting in much more natural and fluid animations across the pitch. This technology underpins the reworked "1vs1" win/lose rules, making individual duels more convincing, and also influences foul decisions.

Enhanced Technical Actions and Strategy

The game introduces new technical capabilities that require strategic timing. Players can charge up a “sharp kick”, complete with new animations, and execute specialized passes and shots, such as sharp crosses, fast lofted passes, and rising shots. Because these advanced actions take longer to execute, players must carefully select the right opportunities during a match.

Platform Availability and Immersion Features

This simulation is available on a wide array of platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Microsoft Windows). For those on the latest generation of consoles, specific hardware features are utilized to enhance immersion. On the PlayStation 5, the game leverages the controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers to convey the subtle differences in player movements and ball contact.

How is team play reflected in the simulation?

Beyond the individual control mechanics, the game focuses heavily on team tactics. The Artificial Intelligence controlling off-the-ball players has been revamped to better reflect real-life team playstyles. Furthermore, the camera system adapts to the action; the “Duel” camera zooms in for close 1vs1 situations to heighten the tension, while expanding the field of view during open play to facilitate long-range strategic passing. The ball movement has also seen further enhancements through research partnerships.

The core experience is built around continuous match action, supported by a Seamless Restart system ensuring the flow of the game is rarely interrupted.